The pattern of human nature to sin is as old as human nature itself. In fact, our tendency to offend God and violate our duties to others appears early in The Bible. In Chapter 3 of the Book of Genesis, Adam and Eve eat the fruit of the tree that was forbidden them, and God expels them from the garden. Not long after, their son Cain kills his brother Abel out of jealousy.

Throughout the Old Testament, individuals – indeed, the entire Israelite people – consistently break the commandments and statutes that God has given and that they have promised to obey. Many times, God threatens to wipe out the whole nation of Israel, but He always reconsiders. Something bad happens to the Israelites, they realize their mistake, and they are forgiven.

What are we to make of this seemingly endless cycle of sin, repentance, and forgiveness?

When Jesus comes – as God himself – He brings with Him the power to forgive sin. In several of the stories in the Gospels, Jesus announces to someone that their sins are forgiven. No act of redemption is required.

But it is important to remember that something must be done to make up for the hurt that has been caused to another, or to a relationship. What is that? It is the offering of Jesus on the cross. Next week’s reflection will discuss this crucial tenet of Christianity.

This week, let us consider the ingrained nature of sin and the constant human striving for redemption.