Genesis 3:8-15

Proper 5 (10) - Year B 

Who is in and who is outside of family? This question continues in the political realm. We are determined to have a leader over us who will lead us into war unending and more taxes for the poor. Patriotism becomes a measure of family.

This question continues in the relational realm. We are determined to have internal secrets that heighten our fear to the point of one lie leading to a next. Your lie justifies my lie and mine, yours. Co-conspiracy becomes a measure of family.

This question continues in the relgious realm. We are determined to have it both ways - G*D's love is steadfast (enduring forever) and doubtful (do not forsake me). We cry to be heard even if all we have to say is confession, appealing for forgiveness with a claim it is for G*D's glory rather than our benefit. Justification becomes a measure of family.

This question continues in the realm of identity. We will continue to be who and what we are. If not in this world, we will claim it in eternity - never letting go. Pride and greed become measures of family.

This question continues in the realm of biology. We will choose to protect our own, blood being thicker than water. When one of our own is in danger we will gather to rescue them from themselves. Genetics becomes a measure of family.

And then the questions get deeper. Who is my family beyond all our usual measures? Those who do not give up on hope of better than we have! This cuts across all political, religious, personal, and racial/cultural lines. In hoping for better than we have, we can find common cause in families, whether trying to hold on to the purity of appearances or an openness to new learning.

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