Ancient Greek mythology tells us the story of the god Vulcan, cast out of heaven by Jupiter when he sought to rescue his mother from Jupiter’s abuse. Stung by his mother’s indifference to his plight Vulcan retreated to the centre of Mount Aetna, where he learned the art of forging metal. There Vulcan created a golden throne of exquisite beauty and extraordinary craftsmanship. It also however contained a large number of hidden springs, so that when a person sat on the throne it would enclose around them.
Vulcan completed the golden throne and sent it to his mother. Juno was delighted with the throne, but the moment she sat upon it it closed in around her and she was unable to escape. All the gods came to her aid, but none was able to free her. Even their united strength and skill were useless against Vulcan’s throne.
It was decided to send the god Mercury to Vulcan to diplomatically and gently request Vulcan come to Olympus and free his mother. But Vulcan refused. Mercury returned empty-handed.
Now the gods sent Bacchus, the god of wine, bearing a gift of his finest vintage. Vulcan filled his cup and soon became drunk. In his intoxicated state Bacchus led him back to Olympus where Vulcan was finally forced to free his mother.
Sin to us humans is very much like Vulcan’s golden throne. When temptation represents itself it appears beautiful, good and enticing. Yet we soon discover it’s outcome is anything but good, that we are made prisoner to sin’s cravings (eg lust, greed, anger, etc).
Yet all is not lost. Just as the gods found a way to free Juno so God found a way to free us, through the death and resurrection of Christ and the forgiveness and fresh start it brings.
Source: Scott Higgins. Mythology found in Guerber, Myths of Greece and
Rome
Applications: sin, temptation, salvation, forgiveness, sanctification