October 7, 2022

“Then the man and his wife heard the sound of the LORD God as he was walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and they hid from the LORD God among the trees of the garden.” (Genesis 3:8)

There is a viral video of a man caught cheating at a walleye fishing contest. His fish are cut open to reveal weights stuffed inside. The guilty fisherman stands stoically while the judge reveals his shame. His fellow competitors go wild: outrage, profanity, abuse, accusation, disbelief. Someone videos the entire episode as the man is asked “What do you have to say? Do you have anything to all to say?” Not a mumbling word from the man. What could he say? He was caught “lead-handed.”

Eventually the man posted an apology. "Disgusted guys and gals, I’m sorry for letting you down for so long and I'm glad I got caught cheating.” Sometimes the worst thing is the best thing, isn’t it? When your hand is forced, there is no place to hide.

And though others may condemn, God always forgives and protects you.

“Stir up your power, O Lord, and with great might come among us; and, because we are sorely hindered by our sins, let your bountiful grace and mercy speedily help and deliver us; through Jesus Christ our Lord, to whom, with you and the Holy Spirit, be honor and glory, now and for ever. Amen.” (Third Sunday of Advent – BCP)