Thomas Lima csc –
Readings: Gen 4:1-5,25; Mk 8:11-13
In today’s first reading we see that Cain ignored the fact that he is related to God and his brother. He allowed his own pride to turn into rage. He exercised his own free will to do evil and became a murderer. But why did the Lord look with favour on Abel’s sacrifice and not on Cain’s offering?
Both performed a religious act, both offered gifts, but only Abel brought the best to God. It is not what we offer to God that matters but how it is offered. Do we worship God out of fear and obligation or out of love acknowledging his Lordship over our lives? We are invited to offer to God a sacrifice of praise with no expectation of a reward.
True religion doesn’t offer half-hearted, self-seeking, and defiled sacrifices. We are invited to give the best of our lives to the Lord as he is generous in multiplying them. As with Adam and Eve, God forgave Cain and promised him protection. If God forgives, should we not forgive ourselves?