The Fall

What's the longest amount of time you've gone without conflict with another person? A week? A day? 15 minutes? Ever wonder why interpersonal conflict is inevitable, even with the ones you love the most? As we continue to consider the brokenness that ensued from the Fall in Genesis 3, we come to the reality of brokenness in relationships with others.

In Genesis 3:16, we see the result of the Fall adversely affecting the relationship between the first husband and wife, as expressed in the curse addressed to Eve - "Your desire shall be for your husband, and he shall rule over you." Although this verse can be confusing (depending on the translation that is used), the meaning is clarified in the next chapter, in Chapter 4, verse 7 where the Lord explained to Cain the ongoing conflict with sin that would continue in his life. Now in context, Gen 3:16 is obviously connected to the ongoing reality of marital conflict, but it can certainly extend to all interpersonal relationships.

Relationships amongst fellow mankind were supposed to reflect the relationship within the Holy Trinity, perfection eternally existing between the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. And yet, sin has marred all human relationships, giving rise to the need of restoration brought about by something, or someone, outside of ourselves.

Enter the reason for why we have, and need, Christmas.

The Apostle Paul encourages the Church in Ephesians 4:3 to be "…eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace." We as the people of God should be eager, to diligently strive, to maintain peace and unity that can only come through the Spirit of God. And because of Christmas, we are reminded that we have a source of that unity, brought about only because of the birth of the Prince of Peace.

This Christmas season, let's remember how our unity amongst the brethren and within the body of Christ give the world a clearer picture of the meaning and purpose behind Christmas, and why each and every one of us needs Christmas!