Cain knew his wife, and she conceived and bore Enoch. When he built a city, he called the name of the city after the name of his son, Enoch…To Seth also a son was born, and he called his name Enosh. At that time people began to call upon the name of the LORD.
Genesis 4:17, 26 (ESV)
Father God, as I look at the lives of these two brothers who did not know each other, Cain the outcast who wandered in the land of Nod, and Seth the replacement for a lost Abel to a grieving mother, my mind has been gripped by the names each called their sons. Cain called his son “Enoch” which means “dedicated, consecrated.” And to establish his legacy he named a city after him. Yet Seth called his son “Enosh” which means “frail, mortal, fragile,” signifying how he saw him. But what is most striking was that with his introduction into the world “people began to call upon the name of the LORD.” Both had life changing additions to their world. In one’s life he and his ancestors would go on to establish great cities, refine farming, establish music, and build a society. In the other, they would see their desperate need and would give their lives to You.
This morning I am asking myself which path I am pursuing? As I embark on the events of the day, what is my chief priority? Is it about making a name for myself or embracing my frailty in service to You? Is it about being recognized for my contributions, being pat on the back for making a difference, or is it about bringing glory to Your Name, worshiping You and exalting You in things at all times? Is it about a legacy or a love affair? Cain left Your presence on his own accord and sought to make a name for himself. Seth ran to You and dedicated his life to You. Today, my soul knows that without You none of this is worth it.
So today, I thank You for the gentle reminder of what is truly important in this world. Thank You for showing me that all of the fame, notoriety, wealth, and accolades that this world can offer do not compare to 10 seconds of basking in Your presence. I thank You that You are giving me eyes to see and a heart to perceive what is truly of greatest importance in my life, and that You are giving me a heart pursue it. Thank You for sending Your Son, my Savior, to secure for me what I could not obtain on my own, and for filling me with Your Holy Spirit to enable me to do what I could not do within my own. I commit my life afresh and anew to You this day and everyday, reminding myself that I, like Mary, have made the better choice. Thank You for Your unending, undying, unchanging love for me. Amen.