Ruth 1-2

Naomi’s family journeyed to Moab during a famine in Israel. While there, her sons married Moabite women. While there, Naomi’s husband and sons all died. So, she decided to return to her home in Bethlehem, after hearing the famine was over. After urging the women to return to their homes, Ruth insists on coming with her. While in Bethlehem, Ruth works and cares for Naomi as best she can by working in the field of Boaz.

In the first half of Ruth’s narrative we see three women and how they respond to circumstances. First, Naomi is bitter and grieving the loss of all her family. Orpah is willing to heed Naomi’s words and return home. But, Ruth refuses to leave Naomi’s side. She essentially says that she’s going to make sure she is taken care of, no matter what. This is a woman who is willing to take care of others who are in need, and do whatever it takes to make that happen. We need to have that same kind of attitude in caring for others, and then be willing to put in the work to back it up. That is what Ruth did for Naomi.

What are you willing to do to be there for others who are in need?