Abel

Abel was the second son of Adam and Eve and the world's first shepherd. His name may mean "breath" or "vapor," foreshadowing his tragically short life. While his brother Cain worked the soil, Abel tended flocks, and both brought offerings to the Lord.

Abel brought the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof—the best of what he had. God had respect for Abel and his offering. The book of Hebrews explains that "by faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous." Abel's offering was accepted because it came from a heart of genuine faith and devotion.

This acceptance cost Abel his life. His brother Cain, consumed by jealousy, murdered him in the field. Abel's blood "cried out" from the ground to God—a powerful image of innocent blood demanding justice. Jesus later called Abel a righteous man and placed him at the beginning of a long line of prophets and righteous people who suffered for their faithfulness.

Though Abel's life was brief, his legacy is eternal. He is the first person listed in Hebrews 11's "Hall of Faith," and Jesus declared that the blood of righteous Abel would be accounted for. His story teaches that faithfulness to God may cost everything but is never forgotten by Him.