The woman saw that the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eyes, and the tree was desirable for gaining wisdom. So she took some of its fruit and ate it; and she also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it.

Genesis 3:6

Loneliness is a common feeling. We cannot allow it to drive our lives but it does help us to understand our human condition. The ultimate cause of loneliness is Original Sin. Sin entered the world as a result of Adam and Eve’s decision to disobey God and eat the forbidden fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. Because of Original Sin, our daily experience is what Christianity has typically called our “three-fold alienation” — from God, others, and our selves.

When God created the world, there was no loneliness, and God walked in the garden with people, in close relationship. But now, sometimes we feel as if we are walking alone, as if God isn’t speaking or listening to us. Jesus came to eliminate this alienation and to bring reconciliation, to bring order to our souls, and to reestablish our relationship with God. Loneliness can remind us that we can always call out to God in prayer and that we are as close to God as we want to be.

Today, reflect on where you feel most “alienated” — from God, others, or yourself. Call to mind the reconciling work of Jesus to help you get on the path to right relationship.