When my kids were small and would get into trouble, after the discipline was done and the tears dried, I'd pull them up in my lap and remind them how much they are loved and even though there may be lasting consequences, I'd be there with them the whole way.

That's what this story reminds me of. As with my own children, this story doesn't begin with anger and cruelty, it also begins with care and compassion. Though the punishment had already been spoken, the ground cursed, and death had entered the story, before they were driven from the garden, God took the time and effort to clothe them. I don't know how much Adam and Eve understood about the longevity of the consequence of their sin ... but God did. And He prepared them for a long and arduous life outside the sanctuary of Eden.

This moment of kindness reframes the story of exile. Yes, they were sent out, but they weren't abandoned. Yes, the cherubim, the throne guardians of God, were put in place to guard the way, but not to torment or taunt them. They were there to prevent an even worse fate. Eternal life in a completely fractured state would not be merciful, horrible. As painful as I'm sure it seemed, and really was, the exile was ultimately an act of restraint and grace.

For Adam and Eve, Eden is lost. But here, God goes with His people. From this point forward, Scripture will tell the ever-winding story of people living a reality "east of Eden". I'm sure they would forever remember what was lost and long for the fulfillment of would be. No, exile not the end of the story ... it's the beginning of hope. Hope shaped and anchored in the promise of eventual restoration and present provision.

Distance can often feel like abandonment and so can consequences. Especially when we've brought them on ourselves. In over 30 years of ministry, I've heard many stories from people who've felt like God had abandoned them because they felt exiled from His presence. This story reminds us that isn't the case.

Where have you interpreted distance as abandonment? How is God "clothing" (or providing in some way) during seasons of exile maybe you did, or did not, choose?

How does this story of kindness during judgment bring you hope for your life today?

Father, I'm so glad your mercy is alive and well, even in judgment I fully deserve. Help me to trust you when I find myself in unfamiliar and difficult places, knowing you will not leave me uncovered or alone. Amen.