Genesis 3:1-13

Today’s symbol is the serpent and the fruit. When God’s people listened to the serpent instead of God, they sinned. But God loved them so much that he did not leave them alone: God’s Son came to save the people who had turned away.

I wonder what it was like to live in the garden with God? To walk with God? To talk with God? Can I imagine being close to God, too?

I wonder what it felt like, to suddenly be afraid of God? Have I ever wanted to hide from someone who loves me? How does that feel in my body? In my heart?

Are there parts of me what I want to hide from my family? From my friends? From God? Can I believe that God always wants to come find me?

This story ended in a sad place. During Advent, we remember that our world is still broken and sad, and that God has promised to make it right. What needs to be made right in my heart? In my family? In my school? In my city? Can I ask Jesus to come and save?

Holy God, thank you for never letting us go. Thank you that even though people disobeyed, you refuse to stay apart from us. Thank you that you have promised us a Savior. Come and rescue us, and turn our steps so that we walk toward you.

In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.