The story of Ruth in the Old Testament illustrates God's love through provision, presence, and protection, highlighting how divine love can manifest in human relationships, especially during times of despair.
For the last 16 years, I have been teaching at men's retreats on a 2,000-acre ranch in southern Montana. One of the activities I have the men do is draw a picture of what God's love looks like to them. Over the years, not once has a man drawn a picture of a house, a car, a boat, or any material possession. Instead, the two most common drawings depict the people who matter most to them and a place where they have encountered God. This leads us to a profound question: when we think about God's love, whom do we think of? God's love is often expressed through people.
As we continue in our series on outsiders, I want to share a love story from the Old Testament book of Ruth that depicts human love within a divine context. This story reveals three expressions of God's extravagant love amidst the darkest circumstances.
The story begins during a chaotic time in Israel, as indicated in Ruth 1:1: "In the days when the judges ruled, there was a famine in the land." This was a period characterized by moral decline, internal conflict, and disunity among the twelve tribes of Israel. The backdrop of Ruth's story is one of despair and disaster.
A man named Elimelech, his wife Naomi, and their two sons leave Bethlehem due to the famine and move to Moab. Tragically, Elimelech dies, leaving Naomi a widow in a society where women had few rights. Over the next ten years, Naomi's sons marry Moabite women, Orpah and Ruth, but then they die as well. Naomi is left alone, destitute, and without hope.
Naomi eventually hears that the famine in Israel is over and decides to return to Bethlehem. She urges her daughters-in-law to stay in Moab, believing she has nothing to offer them. In Ruth 1:12-13, she expresses her bitterness, saying, "The Lord's hand has gone out against me." This mindset reflects a common belief that God is only for us when things are good and against us when they are bad.
However, it is essential to understand that difficult circumstances do not indicate God's displeasure. Often, they are the natural consequences of living in a broken world. God allows these situations to reveal His character and provision. In my own life, I have experienced moments of uncertainty where I had to remind myself that God is my provider, regardless of my circumstances.
As Naomi returns to Bethlehem, Ruth refuses to leave her side, declaring her loyalty in Ruth 1:16-17. This commitment is a beautiful expression of God's love through presence. Ruth's decision to accompany Naomi provides her with companionship during a time of great loss.
The ministry of presence is a powerful way to show God's love to others. It does not require words or solutions; it simply involves being there for someone in need. I recall a time when I underwent a painful knee surgery. The comfort I received from my wife's presence during that time was invaluable. Similarly, Ruth's presence was a tangible expression of God's love for Naomi.
Upon returning to Bethlehem, Naomi's situation appears hopeless. She describes her life as bitter and empty. Yet, God is at work behind the scenes. Enter Boaz, a relative of Naomi's deceased husband, who has the potential to be a kinsman redeemer. This role allows him to marry Ruth and carry on the family name.
Through a series of events, Ruth and Boaz meet, fall in love, and marry. Their union leads to the birth of a son, Obed, who becomes the grandfather of King David. This lineage ultimately connects to Jesus Christ, our kinsman redeemer. Naomi, who once felt abandoned and hopeless, finds her future secured through God's plan.
The story of Ruth illustrates that even in our darkest moments, God's love shines through in unexpected ways. He provides for our needs, offers companionship through others, and protects our future. Naomi's journey from despair to hope serves as a reminder that God is always faithful, even when life is tragic.
As we reflect on this story, we can ask ourselves: Who are the people in our lives that have shown us God's love? And who can we show God's love to today?
