Today, the text for our consideration describes the life of the human family after the fall and punishment of our first parents. It throws light on the awareness of human beings concerning God’s abounding love and goodness, and the ripple effects of sin.
REFLECTION
• The acknowledgment of God’s help by the woman in the gift of the new child shows that motherhood/fatherhood is a blessing bestowed by God. It is, therefore, not surprising to see how some couples, especially the women pray ceaselessly to God for a child. Let us remember to pray for those seeking the fruit of the womb.
• Also, if motherhood/fatherhood is a divine privilege, why do some people abort innocent children, all in the name of human rights? Let’s pray as well for those who promote abortion and those who practice it, that God will enlighten them.
• The text makes it clear that both Cain and Abel worked, and out of what they were blessed with, they offered something in appreciation to God. Are we people who love to do something to support ourselves, or do we act lazily, counting on others to do everything for us? Do we give collection, harvest contributions and tithes with a willing heart or we grumble?
• God looked with favour on Abel and his offering, even though Cain was the eldest of the two. Divine favour has no respect for age, or any other human standards. God blesses those he wants: those who do his will. Are you expecting a divine favour? Take a clue: do what is pleasing to God, and he will bless you.
• We must guard against envy; it is a deadly sin which can kill both the one being envied and the one who envies another. As presented in the text, Cain’s envy led him to physically kill his own brother, Abel. Meanwhile, Cain himself also suffered spiritual death: he lost the sense of brotherhood, and he was also punished by God.
• Sin begets sin. Once we encounter an occasion of sin, we must do our best to avoid it otherwise we’ll end up in greater sins, and their consequences. From being angry, Cain became envious and ended up killing his brother. We have power over sin because we can always choose to listen to the voice of God rather than the voice of the evil one.
• Again, we must realize that no matter the gravity of our sins, God is always a loving and merciful God. He had compassion on Cain, and he is always ready to welcome us back into his friendship.
May the Lord bless and keep all of us, Amen.
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