Some of the greatest stories ever told are love stories. I
like the ones that have been made into movies. Some of my favorite
include: It's a Wonderful Life, The Princess Bride, & Ella Enchanted.
Over the past few weeks I have had the privilege to share the story of Ruth.
It's a great narrative story
that has compelling characters, plot twists, & real life struggles to
overcome. Ruth is a story where we can root for the underdog, cheer for
the cast, & find within the manuscript a symbolism of the Redeemer of
mankind.
In chapter one we are introduced to the main characters: Naomi
& Ruth. Naomi we are told has left
her homeland of Israel for Moab because of a famine. Once there she experiences great loss: her husband
and two sons die. She is not alone in
her suffering; her sons were married.
One daughter-in-law chooses to return home while the other, Ruth, is
determined to remain with Naomi.
Naomi and Ruth return to Israel with nothing. They have no means of support and must resort
to relying on the kindness of others. In
chapter two Boaz arrives on the scene.
Boaz is a wealthy relative of Naomi’s.
Scripture says “by chance” Ruth gleaned (harvested grain) in the fields
of Boaz, but God plans all things for a reason.
Boaz recognizes the work ethic of Ruth (harvesting from morning to night
without rest), and the compassion Ruth has shown to Naomi, and instructs Ruth
to continue to glean his fields. He also
provides security and nourishment for her throughout the harvest.
Her loyalty and compassion toward Naomi pays off in chapters 3
& 4. Ruth, instructed by Naomi, proposes
to Boaz that he redeem her. Redemption
is only possible by one who is capable and willing to fulfilling the
responsibilities of redemption. Boaz is
just what the doctor ordered. And by the
end of the story we see that God blesses their union and provides a son to inherit
and carry on the family name.
One of the reasons this story is so beautiful is that it foreshadows
the love story of Christ. John 3:16 says,
“For God so loved the world, that He gave is only beloved Son, that whomever
believes on Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.” This is the greatest love story of all. Will you consider receiving the love that God
has demonstrated to you?
For more information feel free to contact me @ PastorRyan@fcogracine.com or call
me @ 262-865-8855 (call or text).
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