In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. He made everything beautiful and perfect. Then God formed a man from the dust of the ground and breathed life into his nostrils. The man, whom God named Adam, was the first human.
Adam lived in a lush garden called Eden. It was filled with trees, flowers, and animals of every kind. God saw that Adam needed a companion, so He put Adam into a deep sleep and took one of his ribs. From the rib, God formed a woman and named her Eve. She would be Adam's partner and helpmate.
Adam and Eve lived happily in the garden, enjoying the bountiful fruits and peaceful atmosphere. God gave them only one rule: they could eat from any tree in the garden except the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil. God warned them that eating from that tree would bring death.
One day, a cunning serpent tempted Eve to eat from the forbidden tree. Eve was deceived and took a bite of the fruit. She also gave some to Adam, who knew it was wrong but still ate. Suddenly, they realized they were naked and felt ashamed.
God came to the garden and called out to Adam and Eve. They hid because they were ashamed of their disobedience. God asked them what they had done, and they confessed their mistake. Since they disobeyed God, they were no longer allowed to stay in the garden.
God punished the serpent and said that from then on, it would crawl on its belly. He also told Eve she would have pain in childbirth, and Adam would have to work hard for his food. But God showed mercy by making clothes for them out of animal skins.
Although God punished Adam and Eve, He still loved them. He promised to send a Savior who would one day save them and their descendants from sin. Adam and Eve left the garden but carried hope in their hearts, knowing that God would provide a way for them to be forgiven.
And so, Adam and Eve began a new chapter in their lives outside of Eden. They learned the importance of obedience and the consequences of their actions. But God's love and promises remained with them, guiding them through the journey of human history.
Reflection Questions