In the very beginning of Scripture, in the garden of Eden there is a river that flows outward (Genesis 2:10) and in the last book of the bible we have the river of God, flowing from His throne, down the middle of the great street of the city (Revelation 22:1-2). In both instances the river represents God’s care and provision for His creation — He is the one who provides, sustains, and ensures that we have everything that we need. It’s not a coincidence that there is a river at the beginning and the end of God’s word to us. Indeed, there are no coincidences in Scripture! God is letting us know that He is the great provider, and we can trust in Him.

This image is also seen at the beginning of the book of Psalms where the wise person is described as a tree planted by streams of living water (Psalm 1:1-3). Much later on we hear Jesus describe the Spirit in a similar way, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them” (John 7:37-38).

There is also the many references to the River Jordan, as well as baptism. Crossing the Jordan was an important step for the people of Israel, moving from the desert into the promised land, from wandering aimlessly to finding a home. It is a similar image we have in baptism, symbolically crossing over from death to life, from separation from God to union with Him through Jesus Christ, a unity that is eternal.

I could go on. There are many more ways to see the river as a fitting picture explaining God’s faithfulness and goodness to us. He does sustain us, and provide for our needs. And He has brought us from death to life. Praise be to God!

This coming Sunday Tyler Scarborough from Fairview Baptist Church will be speaking at The Centre. Our gathering starts at 6pm — hope to see you then!

Pastor Mike