Genesis 7:17-24

Building on the verses that we have already reflected on, this passage reinforces the horror of these events. In verses 17-20 we are told in four different sentences that the waters swelled and covered the earth. The use of repetition leaves us in no doubt that this flood was unique and all consuming. Then comes further repetition, this time driving home the devastation that accompanied the flood - 'He blotted out every living thing'. If we were watching a play or a film of this passage you can imagine the eerie silence that would accompany these scenes. If the audience could be drawn into the magnitude of these events then no doubt they would be left either stunned or distraught.

I was struck the other day, as I thought about the cross, that these events were almost the exact opposite of what happened as Jesus died. In this case God's judgment was being poured out on everyone and only one escaped it. On the cross God's judgment was being poured out on one man and all around were being saved. As we have reflected on the tragedy of the flood it is remarkable to contemplate the grace demonstrated to those who have chosen to abide in Christ - we have escaped the devastation of God's judgment. He is our ark.