Sin

I read Genesis 3 today -- the story of the sin of Adam and Eve -- and some commentaries about it.  It occurs to me that we can learn much about ourselves, our sin and our God from this story.

• God warns Adam and Eve of their death if they eat from the forbidden tree. They don't die, and I don't know whether God's warning was metaphorical or if he changed his mind, but either way, there is much that dies as a consequence of our sin.  There is death because of sin -- death of relationships, innocence, trust.
• Their sin is the result, in some ways, of their pride, as is ours.  They attempt to take control of something that should have been left in God's hands.  How often do we do that?  How often do we think we know best?
• After their sin, they are aware of their nakedness.  Sin leaves us vulnerable, guilty, fragile, afraid.  We hide from God just as they did. 
• Their sin interrupts their relationship with God but also with each other.  They blame each other.  Don't we do that?
• Because of their sin, the open door to paradise is closed to them.  What opportunities do we lose because of our sin?  What wonderful doors does God open for us that we turn away from?

And yet, God remains the same.  He is merciful and caring, even in the face of their sin and of ours.  He does not abandon his creation; he does not stop loving them or us.  He cannot stop loving them.  He will not stop loving us.