In the beginning…3. Earth Overlook: Day One

The trek back to the Earth-overlook, as they had begun to refer to the spot where the Spirit was hovering, took much longer than Jesus’ romp to the throne 45 minutes earlier. Father and Son rambled along commenting on the beauty of their surroundings, and greeting angels they happened to pass. Meanwhile, Jesus, in his exuberance, ran in circles, skipped, jumped, and alternatively whistled and hummed as they made their way to this next great adventure…far too tediously to suit him.

Finally, they arrived. A crowd had gathered at the scenic view. Apparently word had spread quickly among the heavenly beings that the duo was on the move, and many of the seraphs and cherubims had left their duties and meandered to the place. It was going to be one of the most exciting days in the history of heaven – a milestone if ever there was one in that celestial home.

The Father followed his energetically bouncing son to the railing as the multitude parted to let them pass. He looked at the Spirit, then down at the dark void and the waters beneath it.

“Father, would you begin? I’m a little nervous,” Jesus stepped aside.

“Of course, I’ll be glad to, my Son.” He peered seriously at the Spirit for a long moment and stated four words that were to be remembered by all present for the rest of eternity, “Let there … be light!”

It took only a millisecond for a brightness to appear that amazed even these inhabitants of heaven. The light that instantaneously bewildered the crowd swirled out of the dark emptiness below. It was dazzling – blinding. There were “Ooos” and “Ahhhs” from the angels, and even an occasional exclamation of “Hallelujah!” Jesus, as did many of the others, stood in silent awe with mouth agape and jaw dropping. Finally, as he recovered his wits, his momentarily-squelched exuberance roared to the surface with what sounded like a barbaric yawp, “Carpe diem!” he proclaimed.

The Father stared down at his son with a questioning look. Before he could query, Jesus stated, “Just a phrase man will find meaningful thousands of years from now, Dad.”

God amusedly replied, “You’ve been using some of your omniscience, haven’t you, Son?”

“Yes, sir!” Jesus stated unhesitatingly.

“Quite fitting, Jesus. Although I would’ve simply looked at the light and said something such as, ‘How nice’ or ‘That’s good.’ Your expression to ‘seize the day’ seems summarily appropriate. Speaking of which, if we call this light ‘day’ have you decided what to call the darkness?”

“Why do we need any darkness at all? The light is so cheery and refreshing; that dark void sitting there for these last days was so depressing, and … and empty looking. It even felt dismal and foreboding,” Jesus answered.

“Remember we discussed this. Mankind will have bright times and dark periods; and he’ll need to sleep to refresh himself for each subsequent day. That will be a lot easier for him to do in a dark environment than with this brilliant light glaring through closed eyelids,” the Father explained.

“I know; but I sure am glad I don’t have to sleep. I’d hate to waste all that time when I could be living! How about calling the darkness … night?” Jesus suggested after a thoughtful pause.

“Fine with me, Son. And let’s have the light fade and the darkness reclaim the sky and space for awhile. That will allow man to sleep more restfully.”

“Father, do you mind if I give some thought to that fading-light-into-darkness idea for a few hours before we decide on that as a permanent solution,” Jesus beseeched. “I want to make this world we’re creating as beautifully amazing and varied as possible.”

“All right, Son,” God said allowing for his son’s enthusiasm. “Why don’t we call it quits for now?”

“Dad, why not call it a day. The First Day!” Jesus suggested.

“That’s good, Jesus. Now let’s head back to the palace.” Then God addressed the angelic spectators still in stunned cheerfulness, “Everyone, we’ll be back … tomorrow and you’re all welcome to join us.” Then he whispered to Jesus, “Come on, Son. I suppose we’ve given them enough to ponder for one day.”

God and Jesus strolled contentedly, hand-in-hand away from that place. This time Jesus showed no propensity to run ahead. He didn’t even whistle, hum, or sing. He simply walked quietly beside his father … attentive, yet deeply in thought.

As they approached the palace, he looked up at his father and said, “Dad, I’ve got some special planning to do before tomorrow.”

“All right, Son,” he looked pleased. “See you later.”

“Father?” Jesus lowered his voice.

“Yes, Jesus?” God calmly matched his son’s volume.

“Good night, Father,” Jesus concluded.

“You’re right. Good night, Son.” The pair parted contentedly.

[to be continued]