When ancient people wanted to express a profound and essential truth, they told a story. The Garden of Eden is one of these stories, and it explains why we have sin and suffering in the world. It is because we disobey God, turning away to follow our desires. Adam and Eve had everything - they lived in peace, plenty, and harmony with God. When they did what was forbidden - eating the fruit from the tree - their eyes were opened, and they came to experience self, shame and separation. They were no longer one with God. Humanity has continued to do this for thousands of years. We pass along our inheritance of negativity, selfishness, greed, fear, and hatred to the next generation, and they do the same. We experience 'death,' which is separation from God. If only we would wake up and return to God with our hearts and minds.

Jesus had to be tested to see if he trusted God totally and was in harmony with him. The devil presented three temptations: physical well-being (bread); power (kingdoms of the world); and the desire for love (throw yourself down). Jesus affirmed his trust in God and his resolve to be obedient. They are what we face every day. Let us remember who weare and who our heavenly Father is.