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“And Cain said to the Lord: My punishment is more than can be endured” (Gen. 4:13). Was it possible to speak like that in the face of God, who is strict, of course, in truth, but also always ready to have mercy on those who sincerely repent? Envy darkened common sense, a deliberate crime hardened the heart, and so Cain rudely answers God Himself: “Am I my brother’s keeper?” (Gen. 4:9) God wants to soften his stony heart with the hammer of His strict judgment, but he does not succumb, and, withdrawn in his coarsening, indulges in the fate that he has prepared for himself through envy and murder. It’s amazing that after that he lived like everyone else: he had children, established a family life and maintained everyday relationships; the stamp of rejection and despair still lay on him. Therefore, this is an internal matter, which is accomplished in the conscience, from the consciousness of one’s relationship to God, under the influence of deeds, passions and sinful habits that burden it. Let them heed this especially now! But together, let them resurrect the faith that there is no sin that overcomes the mercy of God, although softening the heart, of course, will require time and work. But it’s either salvation or destruction! You might be interested in: