Today we read Genesis 4. Chapter 4 begins with a murder and traces how the shadow of violence lengthens until Lamech perverts God’s intention for marriage by taking two wives and boasting that he is 77 times more violent than his murderous ancestor Cain. But we also learn of the birth of Seth, through whom God’s promise (Genesis 3:15) will continue. God’s plan is not stopped by murder. God appoints another seed of the woman to receive the promise and to carry the story forward. The promise continues to unfold until it comes at last to the cross. There, Satan tries to derail God’s plan by killing the seed of the woman. Once again, God prevails, not by appointing another, but by raising Jesus from the dead in declaration that the work is finished, creation is redeemed, and death itself—the chief effect of the fall—is put to death. • Derail for me, O Lord, the devil’s evil plans. Grant me Your help and salvation in Christ. Amen.
Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (pp. 623-624). (Function). Kindle Edition.