The story of humankind outside the Garden of Eden begins with a murder! Our first encounter is with fratricide, in the story of Cain and Abel. Yet, if we are honest, we need to admit that we walk away with less emotion in this narrative than we put into the average Super Bowl.

Perhaps one reason is that we have heard the story so many times that it has become familiar, even predictable. John Steinbeck understood the power of taking an ancient story and giving it new life. In his novel East of Eden, he takes the biblical story of Cain and Abel and places it within the struggles of a contemporary family.

We encounter some perplexing questions. What is the nature of Cain and Abel’s relationship? Why does God accept Abel’s offering but not Cain’s? What happens when the brothers confront one another? Does Cain ever regret the killing of his brother? And does he ever experience forgiveness?  These questions invite us to respond personally to what is, in many ways, our own story.

The contrast between Cain and Abel is accentuated by their offerings and God’s response to them, acceptance of one and rejection of the other. Perhaps it was not the offering itself but the real heart of the man who presented the offerings. 

God gave Cain a choice. “Why are you angry and why has your face fallen?  Sin is couching at the door! “ In other words, God knew Cain’s heart.  Cain acted out of anger.  Perhaps It was more than the offering.  Perhaps it was jealousy on the part of Cain.  Could Abel have been more pleasing to his parents?  We aren’t told the real motive behind this story.  We aren’t privy to all that lies behind the hatred of Cain toward his brother.

The Lord confronts Cain as his brother lies dead in the dust. God asks Cain, “Where is your brother?” “I do not know,”” The Lord gives him one last opportunity to face his actions: “What have you done?” Cain never admits to this murder nor does he ask forgiveness.

These questions are applicable to all of us. “  I do not know. ”  What have you done?  “

Just as Cain was held accountable for his actions we too must answer for what we have done and must do. 

We always need forgiveness in one form or another.  Our lives are not without sin.  Not that we murder or steal, or even gossip.  It goes back to the first commandment.  To love God above and before anything else.

We are unable………… but we know One who can!