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: — Ruth 1:16

This beautiful pledge of love is said at tens of thousands of weddings every year. It’s hard to believe that this wasn’t always a promise made by the bride or groom. Instead, it was Ruth’s promise to her mother-in-law. Some would call her a “ex-mother-in-law” since Ruth’s husband, Naomi’s son, had died, but Ruth never calls Naomi a “ex” of any kind. God likes it when we are loyal to others, and when we are, he blesses us and looks out for us. In a time when people are thrown away as easily as paper plates and napkins, let’s remember that God loves loyalty and that Jesus is the perfect example of loyalty. So, let’s make it a big deal to be loyal to friends, family, and other people who follow Jesus.

 

Thought

This beautiful pledge of love is said at tens of thousands of weddings every year. It’s hard to believe that this wasn’t always a promise made by the bride or groom. Instead, it was Ruth’s promise to her mother-in-law. Some would call her a “ex-mother-in-law” since Ruth’s husband, Naomi’s son, had died, but Ruth never calls Naomi a “ex” of any kind. God likes it when we are loyal to others, and when we are, he blesses us and looks out for us. In a time when people are thrown away as easily as paper plates and napkins, let’s remember that God loves loyalty and that Jesus is the perfect example of loyalty. So, let’s make it a big deal to be loyal to friends, family, and other people who follow Jesus.

 

Prayer

God, you are powerful and true. Thank you for keeping your promises to Israel that you made in the covenant. Thank you for not giving up on your people or your promises, even though your people were fickle and didn’t keep their word. Bless us today as we try to be a loyal and honest people, your true children in a dangerous world. May the light of faithfulness that shines through us call others to find stability and hope in your grace and in your people. In Jesus’ precious name I pray. Amen.