Week of June 10, 2024
The book of Ruth gives us insight into the culture and practices of Ancient Israel.
Monday | Ruth 1:22, Leviticus 23:15-22
The Festival of Shavuot. Ruth and Naomi come to Bethlehem at the beginning of barley festival which signals the coming of Shavuot – a special festival. Everyone would be excited about this festival – preparing and anticipating the celebration – except for Naomi and Ruth. They have no children, they are poor and dependent upon God’s mercy. Who are the people in your life who are in need of hope for the future? How does a festival like Shavuot give us insight for hope of better days?
Tuesday | Ruth 2:1-7, Leviticus 19:9-10, 23:22
Gleaning. May I introduce you to the concept of gleaning? I love how God takes care of the vulnerable – the widows, the orphans, the foreigners. The Leviticus text tells us what gleaning is. That is how God instructs His people to care for the poor. How would you describe gleaning? The poor still have their dignity because they are doing the work. What is our modern-day concept of gleaning? How do we take care of the vulnerable people around us? What is one thing that you can do?
Wednesday | Ruth 2:1-13, Psalm 36:7, Psalm 91:4
Character of Boaz. What do you learn about the character of Boaz from this text? Note verse 12: How does Boaz reflect the character of God? How can you reflect God’s character in the relationships you have?
Thursday | Ruth 2:5-19, Leviticus 19:33-34, James 1:27
Character of Ruth. What do we learn about Ruth’s character from this text? What might it have been like for Ruth to live as a foreigner in Bethlehem? Where are you seeking refuge? What might it be like for the foreigner/the refugee living here in Eau Claire? What part of Ruth’s character would you like to emulate?
Friday | Ruth 2:11-23
Generosity – Going over and above. Note the generosity of Boaz. He wasn’t seeking to fill requirements but went over and above the requirements. How does his generosity show up in this story? There are typically 3 reasons we give for not serving: 1) Busyness 2) Don’t know how or where 3) Just not a priority. Which of these 3 tends to be your excuse? How has God blessed you and how can you give in the spirit of Boaz? (over and above)
