Justin Houtz

Genesis 1-2; Luke 1

DateVersionReading Plan
January 1, 2026ESV (2016)ESV Life Journal Plan – 2026

Genesis 1-2

Observation & Interpretation

Genesis 2:3 (ESV) So God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it God rested from all his work that he had done in creation.

Throughout the first chapter, we read of the days of creation and God speaking all things into being, but at the beginning of ch. 2 we read that day seven is—the day of rest—is the only day that God blessed. He “made it holy, because on it God rested from all his work that he had done in creation” (Gen. 2:3). The association of of blessing, holiness and rest seems worthy of meditation. What’s more is to see the cause and order of these concepts: God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it God rested” (emphasis mine). The BBC provides clarity that “This is not the rest that follows weariness but the rest of satisfaction and completion of a job well done.” As we carry on in our busy lives, it would benefit us to understand rest rightly, reflecting on the blessing God bestowed upon this day.

Luke 1

Observation & Interpretation

It is wonderful that the Spirit inspired Luke to include both Mary’s song of praise (The Magnificat) and Zechariah’s prophecy in this chapter. In Mary’s song, we see the repetition of “He has…” in reflection of what our Lord has done. This sentiment is shared in Zechariah’s prophecy, but also included is a look into the future as to what will happen through this blessed Child borne. With them both, we are invited to exult in our Lord and the promise fulfilled in His coming.

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