It wasn’t the snake or the fruit

Some of those who have read or heard the mythologies of ancient peoples could be forgiven for seeing more of the same in today’s first reading (Genesis 3:1-8), which appears to feature talking snakes and fruits with magical effects.

Of course, this passage also has echoes of the mythologies of modern, pseudo-scientific people as well: from parapsychology to the latest diet craze.

This passage, of course, is more than the literary genre of mythology nor is it "just a story".

What really happened? Was it demonic manipulation of an animal? Was it telepathy? Was it an externalization of interior deliberation?

Ultimately, the key action was happening inside the heads of the human beings standing near the tree who listened to temptation and decided to disobey God.

Even today, you and I can try to shift blame in all sorts of directions.

What we need to do is take responsibility and to seek the grace and forgiveness of God.

Lord Jesus Christ, Son on the living God, be merciful to me – a sinner.