Re:Verse reading–Ruth 2:1-12, 17-23; 4:1-14 (day five)
So she gleaned in the field until evening. Then she beat out what she had gleaned, and it was about an ephah of barley. She also took it out and gave Naomi what she had left after she was satisfied.
Ruth’s perspective was to work faithfully in the midst of her current circumstances. Ruth’s assignment was to serve and minister to Naomi. Not a grand and lofty venture, but a calling Ruth felt was given to her. Where has God placed you in this season of life? Has He called you to work and minister? Will you serve Him and others with passion and joy? That was Ruth’s perspective. It was pleasing to the Lord and to others
For the Christian there is always a connection between the ordinary events of life and the stupendous work of God in history. Everything we do in obedience to God, no matter how small, is significant. It is part of a cosmic mosaic which God is painting to display the greatness of His power and wisdom. – John Piper
What a beautiful, faithful, loving and caring relationship between a mother-in-law (Naomi) and daughter-in-law (Ruth)! This story should remind us what can happen as we grow old and those we once surround with are no longer with us. We may be completely on our own and will feel lonely and isolated. What happens when we look around at the last phase of our lives but no familiar faces are around?
Building good and loyal relationship takes time, patience, mutually understanding, and personal sacrifices. Without good relationship from the beginning, there will be no relationship. Naomi shows us what a good mother-in-law is! She demonstrated her sincere love for her daughter-in-laws and they saw that love in her. They valued, loved and appreciated her kindness and her Godly heart.
Naomi cared for her daughter-in-laws’ future, not her aging and lonely life. She was truly a great role model for all mother-in-laws; and Ruth is a great role model for all daughter-in-laws. What a great love for others story!
God is in all of these. He rewards good, Godly behaviors. This story teaches us of a magnificent reward from God to those who practice and dispense steadfast kindness.