Ruth And Naomi's Enduring Love

Pastor Kevin Rutledge - 10/15/2023 10:00 AM

Transformative narratives and divine wisdom intertwine as we venture into the heartening saga of Ruth and her unwavering dedication to her mother-in-law, Naomi. Her tale speaks volumes about the power of commitment, the prominence of paying attention to those in need, and how these elements can impact the course of history. This Moabite woman chose to follow her mother-in-law, tying her destiny to Naomi's people, and ultimately to the lineage of King David and Jesus. This ardent commitment echoes the story of Job and underscores the essence of divine providence in our lives. 

Continuing on, we transition from the tale of Ruth to a broader divine call - the mandate to care for the lost and those who hurt. This is a call to make choices influenced not by our convenience or comfort, but by God's metrics. As we navigate the complexities of these decisions, we encounter paradoxes that may contradict worldly logic but align perfectly with divine inspiration. We draw parallels with the parable of the lost sheep, illustrating how making such commitments can bring about transformation, hope, and divine blessing, even if it causes our lives to feel different. Join us on this enlightening journey, and let's learn together about love, commitment, and the divine workings of providence.

Scripture:

  • First Reading: Matthew 18:10-14
  • Second Reading: Ruth 1:1-17
View Order of Worship View Message Transcript View Small Group Discussion Guide

This Week's Reading Plan

Day: Reading:
Monday David Is Anointed: 1 Samuel 16:1-13
Tuesday David and Jonathan: 1 Samuel 18:1-5
Wednesday David's Success, Saul's Jealousy: 1 Samuel 18:6-16
Thursday David Spares Saul: 1 Samuel 24:1-7
Friday David Speaks to Saul: 1 Samuel 24:8-15
Saturday Saul Replies: 1 Samuel 24:16-22
Sunday David Becomes King: 2 Samuel 5:1-5; 6:1-5; Psalm 150

Each podcast episode features portions of our worship service and a deep dive conversation about its themes.

Reflections and Caring Conversations

Please use the prompts and prayers below to aid you in your devotions for this week.

  • Morning Prayer: Gracious Lord, as I rise to greet this new day, I am reminded of Ruth's unwavering commitment and her boldness to make decisions that contradicted worldly logic. Fill my heart with the same courage and dedication, to care for those in need, irrespective of personal comfort or convenience. Teach me to act upon your divine call with love and commitment, Amen.

  • Evening Prayer: Merciful Father, as I retire from the day's work, I reflect on the lessons learned from Ruth's commitment and love. As I journey through the complexities of life, guide me to make decisions based on your divine metrics. Teach me to put the needs of others before my own comfort, echoing the essence of divine providence in my life. In Jesus' name, I pray, amen.

  • Reflection Question: In this sermon, we're encouraged to make choices influenced by God's metrics, not our convenience or comfort. What steps can you take to start living in this way? (Refer to Philippians 2:3-4)

  • Reflection Question: How does the story of Ruth inspire you to live out a life of love and commitment, despite the complexities and challenges we face? 

  • Reflection Question: The sermon draws parallels with the parable of the lost sheep. How does this parable illustrate the level of commitment God expects from us towards those who are lost and hurting? (Refer to Matthew 18:10-14)

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