After the tragedy of Cain and Abel, the Bible introduces us to another family of brothers. This time there are three: Shem, Ham, and Japheth. They did not inherit a peaceful world. They inherited one that had been washed clean by the judgment of God. Only eight people stepped off the ark after the Flood, and from these three brothers every nation on earth would eventually arise.

Adam and Eve knew the joy of welcoming children into a world that God had created good. Cain became a farmer, cultivating the ground. Abel became a shepherd, caring for his flocks. They shared the same parents. They grew up under the same roof. They undoubtedly heard the same stories about the Garden of Eden, the serpent, God's judgment, and God's promise of redemption. Yet as they grew, something very different was taking place within their hearts.