Adam and Eve had it all. God had given them a perfect world, a perfect creation. Food was available, they didn’t have to grow it. They didn’t need clothes, it was a perfect climate. There was no fear, all living creatures lived in perfect harmony. There was no sickness, pain, sadness, or death. It was just perfect.
After Adam and Eve disobeyed God’s command, sin came into the world. Everything went from perfect to imperfect. As a consequence, Adam and Eve could no longer live in the Garden of Eden, because God did not want them eating from the Tree of Life and living forever in their sinful state. They had to leave.
It was a time of great uncertainty. They had never worked fields or grown crops before. How would they eat? They had never experienced drastic climate changes, such as blazing summers and harsh winters. How would they survive without proper clothes? They had never worried about animal attacks or accidents. How would they stay alive? Everything was so uncertain. There was great fear.
As our nation is dealing with the corona virus, everything seems so uncertain. There is uncertainty about how the virus spreads and what precautions we are to take. There is uncertainty about how to treat the virus once people become infected. There is uncertainty about how long the virus will last, or how long will schools be closed. There is uncertainty about how long will people be out of work, and how long until we can once again worship as a church. We have our own uncertainties about how to protect our families and children, and how to continue to provide for them.
As Adam and Eve set out to a new life of great uncertainty, they would not be going alone. God was still going to be with them. God provided animal skins for clothing, and would see to their daily needs. But more importantly, before Adam and Eve left the garden, God had given them the promise of a Savior. A Savior who would come and one day make mankind perfect again. That Savior would be Jesus, who through his death and resurrection would bring forgiveness and eternal life.
God would be with Adam and Eve, and God will continue to be with us today. He will continue to reign. He will continue to provide. He will continue to forgive. His mercy and grace are certain.
Pastor Matt Guse, St. Peter’s, Fond du Lac
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