Castle's Keep

An Early Tragedy

The story of Cain and Abel is one of the very first tragedies to befall humankind – the kind of story that playwrights and novelists can only emulate. The murder of one’s own brother is such an onerous idea that the story is well remembered as a showcase of where unrestrained jealousy leads. But the original cause of jealousy is, according to the Bible text, wrapped up in God’s regard for Abel’s offering and God’s disregard for Cain’s. What exactly was wrong with Cain’s offering to God?

A Powerful Symbol

and to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood, which speaks better than the blood of Abel.
Hebrews 12:24 (NASU)

In Genesis Chapter 4 we find the story of Cain and Abel. This story is full of many lessons, such as: the importance of offering the “best”; the quarrels which can exist between brothers; and the great danger and evil outcomes of envy and jealousy.

A Common Challenge

It is a common challenge of young people especially to “live up to their potential.” This idea emphasizes the need to make the best of life – the encouragement to succeed with one’s pursuits and one’s ambitions. Although this is most commonly associated with careers, (such as being successful in business or being a professional such as a doctor or lawyer), this can also be manifest in various arts or sports. In essence, we want people to do the very best they can with their own particular talents and abilities – no one wants to see a young person “waste” the life they have been given.