Our scripture today is Ruth 1:21 (ESV).
“I went away full, and the Lord has brought me back empty. Why call me Naomi, when the Lord has testified against me and the Almighty has brought calamity upon me?”
While it is a fact that we will experience bad times in our lives, God does not send these as punishment for sin. Naomi perhaps overstates the situation – they were fleeing famine by leaving the land of Canaan. She did have her husband and sons. Now returning “empty” she perhaps understates the situation – the loyal love and support Ruth gives her. Through it all, God has been with her, and her witness has brought Ruth to faith in God. She returns and follows God’s law as given for their society and finds God’s blessing for them both.
Loving Lord, we sometimes lament our circumstances, but we know You are there with us. Help us to tell the world that salvation is found only in Jesus and Your forgiveness of our sins. May we share the Good News everywhere. Amen.
