The start of this series kicked off with the admission that this is personal.
Scripture was written for various reasons. The story of Ruth is written to give an insight into the heritage of royalty that was birthed in expressions of loyalty. This is a national story. It is not epic in scope but it is magnificent in its depths. It does not make overt references to God at work, but His handiwork is woven into every aspect of the story and His providence cannot be denied as individuals and opportunities come together to turn one woman’s tragedy into a story of redemption and triumph far greater than she would imagine.
So, how is it personal? It’s personal when I consider the journey that Naomi takes and how her fortunes are orchestrated by the Lord, but she has enough nous to actively counsel her daughter-in-law. It’s personal when I marvel at the loyalty of Ruth and the lengths to which she will maintain that loyalty. It’s personal when I regard the way in which Boaz uses his position to do what’s right by his family and take note of the great qualities of this virtuous woman who is so devoted to her mother-in-law. It’s personal because these are real people enduring real situations and endeavouring to keep going and be a source of blessing to others.
Observing how this chain of events would be significant to the great monarchy in the history of God’s people ad by that a precursor to the arrival of the Messiah, is a breathtaking exercise. An exercise in how simple acts of faithfulness can be the foundation for so much greatness down the line.
It is so important to view this story as so much more than a romance. It’s not even a romance as modern sensibilities appreciate it. Yet this is a deep and profound love story for the ages covering various dynamics of love from the love a woman has for her family to the love a daughter-in-law has for her mother-in-law to the love a man has for his family. The act of the will to do what is right, is present here and our ability to see that, learn from it and apply it in our relationships is a reflection of the love that would be highlighted by the Messiah.
This book is such a treasure in a world that can be so deeply darkened by self-centred and conceited pursuits.
Reviewing Ruth has been a great personal exercise to see the wisdom my parents had in naming their first child together after this woman. It’s an honour to my sister that she should be blessed with that name. It’s a blessing to us that my sister has lived up to the character in her own way and left an impact on others. It’s a reminder that these things are written so we can be taught and learn the way of God even in the characteristics and interactions of people who would not be seen as great in their day, but now are giants of faith.
They are here for us to learn of Christ and learn who we are because of the goodness of God. The God who redeems us.
For His Name’s Sake
Shalom
C. L. J. Dryden
Life With CD 