Saints Cyril, monk, and Methodius, Bishop
Friday of week 5 in Ordinary Time
First reading Genesis 3:1-8
The passage presents a pivotal moment in the story of humanity’s relationship with God. Adam and Eve, having listened to the deceptive voice of the serpent, find themselves in a state of fear and shame, hiding from the very presence of the Lord who had lovingly created them. Their ability to still hear the sound of God walking in the garden suggests that His presence had not abandoned them, yet their disobedience had altered their response to Him. Instead of welcoming their Creator with joy, they now cower in guilt, illustrating the profound consequences of choosing to heed falsehood over truth. The voice of the serpent was enticing, but ultimately empty—leading them away from trust in God and into a state of rupture and alienation. This moment reflects not only the first sin but also the pattern of human frailty throughout history: when we give in to voices that distort the truth, we risk distancing ourselves from the very Source of life and love. Yet, even in their hiding, God does not withdraw; He continues to seek them, calling out, desiring restoration rather than condemnation. This passage invites us to reflect on the voices we listen to in our own lives. We must not follow the deceptive, hollow words of temptation, but we must remain attuned to the loving call of our Creator. Let’s reflect: In my own life, are there moments when I, like Adam and Eve, hide from God—allowing fear, shame, or the distractions of the world to distance me from His presence—rather than trusting in His mercy and love?
Don Giorgio