I Am the Beginning and the End: Creation Stories and Visions of Fulfillment in the Bible

Reflecting on the first four chapters of Genesis and the last section of the Book of Revelation, the author discerns in them something of the profound meaning behind the creation of the universe (cosmology) and our place in it (anthropology) in the light of faith in God (theology). Who of us, for example, has not wondered at one time or another about the beginning and the end of the world and human history? How can we reconcile the data of empirical science and the insights present in Sacred Scripture? In trying to make sense of the world and all that is in it, it should not surprise us that the Bible regards each and every aspect of creation as a reflection of the unfathomable Mystery that gives meaning and consistence to all that exists. These texts allow us to discover, at the heart of all that exists, an inexhaustible Wellspring of energy and a Focus of unity, offering fulfillment in a life shared by all. The present work is based on the Bible reflections given in Taizé as part of the international young adult meetings that take place there.