In 1940, Winston Churchill famously remarked, “Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few.” He was referring to the sacrifices made by the Royal Air Force fighting against the Nazis in the Battle of Britain.

I thought of that quote the other day when reading about the Fall of man in Genesis 3 – only with a twist. “Never in the field of human history have so few caused so much pain to so many.” Adam and Eve affected the whole human race when they succumbed to Satan’s temptation in the Garden.

Until…. Jesus.

Another hour. Another garden. But this time Satan was the one to fall. Eve’s doubt: Did God really say? (Gen. 3:1) stands in sharp contrast to the Lord’s ruthless trust: Shall I not drink the cup the Father has given me? (John 18:11). Fear caused Adam and Eve to hide from God: I heard you in the garden…so I hid (Gen 3:10). Jesus met fear straight on: Jesus, knowing all that was going to happen to him, went out and asked them, Who is it you want?….I am he (John 18:4-5). Self-interest motivated Eve: When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good…she took some and ate it (Gen.3:6). Reverent submission motivated Jesus: not my will but yours be done (Luke 22:42).

The Garden of Gethsemane prepared the way for Resurrection Sunday. It reopened the path leading to the tree of life. Now every man, every woman, has the opportunity to walk in God’s presence. Do you know you’re no longer stuck east of Eden? Are you living in the profound reality of what Jesus accomplished?

Never in the field of human existence has one man sacrificed so much for so many. This Easter season and always, we owe him everything.

Lord Jesus, we can’t begin to understand the depth of your sacrifice. But we thank you for all you have done to save us.

Throughout this day: Think about Jesus’ character. His complete trust in God, his courage, his selflessness, his reverent submission. Let it fill you with a deeper appreciation for who he is and what he’s done.



Tags: Genesis 3