March 12 Devotion--Naomi and Ruth

Ruth 1

8 And Naomi said unto her two daughters in law, Go, return each to her mother's house: the Lord deal kindly with you, as ye have dealt with the dead, and with me.

16 And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God:
17 Where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: the Lord do so to me, and more also, if ought but death part thee and me.

The book of Ruth has always been one of my favorites.  I love the story of redemption and grace which is the overriding theme of the book.  But I am so drawn to the story of the mother-in-law and daughter-in-law on a more personal basis.

In-laws are often the punchline in jokes, especially the mother-in-law.  But when we look at this relationship, it really shows us the importance of these connections and it shows us an example of God's love.  Ruth was completely devoted to Naomi, even though the person that held them together (Naomi's son and Ruth's husband) was no longer alive.  Even though Orpah had gone back to her people, Ruth stayed with Naomi.  These verses from Ruth to Naomi are often used in wedding ceremonies.  That is because it was a great witness of the kind of practical love that is necessary for two people to survive.  This story gives us the view of a mutual commitment that must be made.

Many times we find a mother-in-law (MIL) and daughter-in-law (DIL) at odds with each other.  However, we see here how they can work toward a common goal.  I think today the common goal for the MIL and DIL is for the commitment of the marriage of her son and DIL.  They both want the children to grow up to be physically and spiritually healthy, as well.  They can work together as a team and be a support to each other--just like Naomi and Ruth.

While I feel very blessed to have this type of relationship with my DILs, I know many MILs who don't have the closeness that we see in Naomi and Ruth.  Regardless of which role we fill, it is important that we show God's love and commitment to one another.

As we go through this day, let us find ways to be examples of God's love to those around us.