The First Sin

In the beginning, God crafted a flawless paradise called Eden and created Adam to tend to it. Though Adam had everything he could ever want, God could see he was lonely. So while Adam slept, God made Eve from his rib to be his companion.

The shrewd serpent, however, was jealous of the couple's idyllic life. Sneaking up on Eve, he said "Why not eat the forbidden fruit? God knows it will make you wise."

Eve was hesitant at first. But the fruit was so tempting - ruby red and perfectly ripe. She decided to take just one bite. Finding it delicious, she shared it with Adam.

As the juice dribbled down their chins, the world seemed to change. For the first time, they felt ashamed of their nakedness. When God called out, they hid in the bushes.

"I told you not to eat the fruit!" God scolded. Adam blamed Eve, and Eve blamed the snake. God was furious at their disobedience.

As punishment, He banished them from Eden forever. Now they would have to struggle and toil on the barren earth. Pain, hardship and death awaited.

Adam and Eve walked away weeping, the glorious garden disappearing behind them. But God's love still shone on them like a flicker of hope. If they atoned, perhaps one day they could find their way home.

The moral: Temptation leads to sin. But forgiveness leads to redemption.