Scripture - Gen 4:8-9 Now Cain talked with Abel his brother; and it came to pass, when they were in the field, that Cain rose up against Abel his brother and killed him. Then the Lord said to Cain, “Where is Abel your brother?” He said, “I do not know. Am I my brother’s keeper?”
Observation - This is one of the classic scripture versus. This story is told over and over and has probably been preached as many times. In this story the scripture is trying to teach us that we are to bring our best offering to The Lord. That when we bring a slip shod offering to God it is not received or accepted. God only deserves the very best as he gave us the very best. The story results in Cain's subsequent anger with God and offense against his brother Abel. Anger to the point of murder. God asks Cain where is brother is and Cain answers very flippantly - "Am I my brother's keeper?" As I read the story today and think about all that is happening in our world. I am compelled to believe that society needs to be confronted with this question. The story results by clearly convincing Cain that in fact he is his brothers keeper.
Application - This story points out to us that we must be concerned for our fellow human. I believe there are multiple points in this passage: 1. We must be concerned with our brother and his well being. Too often we are not concerned about the well being of our fellow humans. In this world of get what you want at whatever cost, the human condition gets lost and over looked. We are our brothers keeper. We are responsible for the other guy. We have a spiritual and moral responsibility to do for our brother and ensure his well being. 2. That life is valuable and should be treated as such. I have watched the generation behind me treat life as disposable. In an age of shoot to kill video games and board games with titles like "Assassins Creed" it is no wonder this generation is prone to moving to reality from fantasy with their killing sprees. We must begin teaching the value of human life. We must shout the value from the tallest mountain and begin taking responsibility for human life. God alone gives and takes life. Life is to be treated with respect and highly valued.
Prayer - Father help me to be the proponent for my brother and for life. Help me to see the message and how to teach the value of life to all that I come in contact with.
