At every Eucharistic celebration, this attitude is reiterated - it is right and just always and everywhere to give thanks to the Lord. Today, our attitude is re-examined by the reading that cautions us against rivalry between people, which is probably one of the oldest traits of humanity. The tendency to outdo one another can bring out the best and the worst in humanity. We question why rivalry exists. Perhaps it is to assert dominance and influence over someone or a group of peoples.

The passage in Genesis today tells us about Cain and Abel, a narrative account of the first case of murder. Both are given particular ability to labour and produce results. Their soured relationship obviously boils down to jealousy, indicated by Cain asking "why was my offering not accepted?" However, is this enough reason to kill someone? The feeling of jealousy would have to be very intense for this to happen.

Hence, we need to be aware of the ruinous motive within us that can manifest itself in aggression. We need to constantly surrender ourselves to the guidance of the Holy Spirit, to conform our hearts to that of Christ, so that we always choose to appreciate and not to envy, to bring forth healing instead of hurt. Jesus refused to entertain the demands for signs from the Pharisees, whose intention is more envious, rather than acceptance. For us, to be appreciated is a good enough sign.