Genesis 4:1 Adam made love to his wife Eve, and she became pregnant and gave birth to Cain. She said, “With the help of the Lord I have brought forth a man.”
The description of the fruits offered to the Lord (v2-3) jumps out at me in today’s reading. Cain “brought some of the fruits of the soil,” while Abel “brought an offering–fat portions from some of the firstborn of his flock.” There’s definitely a difference in these two offerings: Abel’s comes from the first fruits–the best that he’s got. Cain’s isn’t described as exceptional in any way, making it seem like he’s offering what he doesn’t think will be useful to him, the leftovers.
Genesis 4:2 Later she gave birth to his brother Abel. Now Abel kept flocks, and Cain worked the soil.
It is so easy to judge Cain and laud Abel in this situation, but how often have I been guilty of the same thing–offering God what I know I won’t miss? Offering God, not the best I have to give but the leftovers that I’m not even sure I can use anyway? And when my sham offering is rejected, how often do I get salty because, didn’t I give? Didn’t I do what was expected of me?
Genesis 4:3 In the course of time Cain brought some of the fruits of the soil as an offering to the Lord.
Precious Savior, Thank You for the reminder that it is not just my offering that is important but also my attitude. Sometimes my attitude stinks. Forgive me. Help me to root myself so deeply in You that I cast aside my human failings as much as is possible on this side of the veil. Help me to always offer You the best I have to give. Amen.
Genesis 4:4-5 And Abel also brought an offering—fat portions from some of the firstborn of his flock. The Lord looked with favor on Abel and his offering, but on Cain and his offering he did not look with favor. So Cain was very angry, and his face was downcast.
Have a blessed day.