Arc of the Covenant
God said, “This is the sign of the covenant that I make between me and you and every living creature … for all future generations: I have set my bow in the clouds, and it shall be a sign of the covenant between me and the earth.” – Genesis 9:12-13 (NRSV)
Post-flood, God set a (rain)bow in the clouds: a vibrant sign of a promise to, with, and between God, the people, and every living creature for all future generations. Successive generations since that first rainbow renegotiated the covenant in some ways, and not always pleasantly. There were thunderous arguments from all parties, complaints that the other was not holding up their end. The covenant needed to bend yet remain unbroken. In this way, scripture shows that the arc of a covenant over time is dynamic, flexible, adaptable for the sake of remaining sustainable.
Covenants articulate and guide our intentions, promises, and aspirations. Relying on whole-hearted engagement, accountability and responsibility are central to common flourishing and mutual care. When one wanders out of covenant, they are called back in for repair and restoration.
Lent invites us to consider our covenants, to contemplate signs that cause us to pause in awe and wonder, to reflect on the sacredness of our promises and the divine love of holding one another while simultaneously being held. Through our Lenten journey with Jesus, we weather threats, and we look for hope. We need vibrant signs in such times.
Storms will come, and some will leave us twisted and bent. But that’s when a rainbow appears, reminding us that we are not broken. Even when the arc of a covenant bends, its sacred and beautiful promises remain intact.
Prayer
Show us signs when our covenants bend, calling us whole-heartedly into mutual care. Amen.
About the AuthorChris Mereschuk (He/Him) is an Unsettled Pastor based in Northampton, MA. He is the Founder of RevCJM, LLC Consulting & Coaching, specializing in vitality, transformation, and Legacy.