But the serpent said to the woman, ‘You will not die; for God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.’” vs. 4-5
Genesis 2:15-17, 3:1-7
The ancient Hebrews used the story of temptation in the Garden of Eden to explain the presence of evil in the world–when not taken literally it contains profound truths about human nature and our relationship to God. Often we think of evil as an opposing force, a power that has battled the forces of good from the very beginning. While that dualistic view of reality can be compelling, it leaves many questions unanswered. Consequently, some have found it more helpful to think of good and evil as being more like partners in creation, and it does seem to be true that one cannot exist without the other. While at times we’re conscious only of the good and the joy that it brings, experience tells us the evil is close at hand, and sometimes it only takes one bad decision to turn our lives upside down. Mostly those poor choices come in response to temptations. We’re led by our inner voices to believe that life can be better than it already is, and then speak or act in ways that are completely contrary to God’s way. Sometimes by the time we’ve come to our senses, only repentance and grace can get us back on track. How much better it is when our first response is resistance!
Thought for the Day: The best temptation I’ve ever resisted…
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