Dec. 1 Genesis 3:1-15

The perfect paradise with God was lost.  The fall of Adam is a fall that impacts the entire human race.  The disobedience of the first Adam imputed sin to all that would be born.  Death is now a reality.  The consequences of sin are felt among us all.  We experience the hurt, pain, destruction, and disappointments every day. 

The beauty of the story, however, is the fact that the Lord is gracious.  Adam and Eve attempted to cover their own sin and shame through the figs they sowed.  The Lord would not be satisfied with man's attempt to redeem themselves.  The Lord would provide the covering.  He would pardon their shame.  He made the first sacrifice and provided the appropriate covering for Adam and Eve.  This act of sacrifice points to the greatest sacrifice of His Son!  Our first parents could not atone for their own sin, and we can not either.  We must be redeemed by the cross and resurrection of Jesus the Christ.

Adam and Eve, though experiencing God's grace, still felt the consequences of sin.  Paradise was lost.  They would now enter a world of suffering.  The hope . . . the Lord would send a Messiah.  Genesis 3:15 is the first gospel message preached and it was given by the Father.  It is a message of the victory of Christ over the enemy! 

This advent season, keep your eyes on the savior of mankind.  Jesus bruised Satan on his head and paid the penalty of sin so that all who will call upon the Lord might receive the covering of His great grace.