Character Matters

This is a story of a family that experiences a horrible, tragic set of events.   It was already difficult enough for an Israelite family to welcome wives from the traditional enemies of their people.  We are not told anything about the dynamics of that part of the story, but from we know of the culture and situation, it would be safe to say that this would probably be "complicated" in many ways.  It might not have been a huge issue while they were living in Moab, but when circumstances resulted in huge losses and the need for Ruth and Naomi to return home, one could expect that it would be complicated indeed. 

The culture is certainly different from ours, and we certainly would not do things quite the way they were done then, but there is something about the relationship between Ruth and Naomi that reflects a kind of relationship that family is all about.  There is something about who those people are personally and with each other that is amazing.  As you reflect on the story, and Pastor Fidi's comments, notice what surfaces there for you.  The truth is, that Character counts.  Not your background.  Not where you come from.  Not what others have said.  Not what your culture says about you.  But who you are.