Encounter: Find a quiet space to read or listen to the Book of Ruth. In only 4 chapters we will find relief from the stories of faithlessness and failure in the Book of Judges to witness the complete opposite in the lives of Ruth and Boaz. Loyalty shines through in their relationships and reminds us of the One who is loyal to us. And then spend some time in Luke 10:25-37.
Mending the Soul was created in 2003 when Steve and Celestia Tracy and a handful of men and women met with a passion to comfort those broken by abuse. Because there were few resources available to address the complexities of abuse and neglect, Steve and Celestia published Mending the Soul: Understanding and Healing Abuse to educate on the nature and effects of abuse, and the Mending the Soul Workbook to guide survivors through an interactive and integrated process of healing and forgiveness in a community based model of healing.
Together, the Tracys co-founded and co-direct Mending the Soul, mentoring and supervising collaborative teams of writers, artists, musicians, educators, students, mental health providers, and business professionals who create the sustainable healing models and curricula for Mending the Soul Ministries for global application. They often share about how this ministry was born out of the tragedy of a family member experiencing abuse.
It was in the midst of so much brokenness God would weave together His redemptive purposes to bring healing to thousands of abuse survivors, (including me) taking down barriers that keep them from a relationship with Jesus. Their model is transforming communities in the United States and around the globe.
As we study the Book of Ruth, we get to see a story of redemption unfold before us as a shadow of our Redeemer who is loyal above all. Loyalty, as illustrated in the Book of Ruth and the Gospel of Luke, is a virtue encompassing love, faith, and commitment. Ruth's loyalty to Naomi and the teachings of Jesus both serve as compelling examples of how being faithful to others and to one's beliefs can lead to profound personal and spiritual fulfillment. In a world where loyalties are often tested, these biblical stories remind us of the enduring power and beauty of unwavering dedication.
On Wednesday I’ll be flying to Phoenix for a Fundraising event for Mending the Soul to show our loyalty to our partnership. I will carry a financial gift with me that has been collected from the women who have experienced healing through MTS here at Eden Church and in our community. You also have the opportunity in worship Sunday to add to that gift if you are able to show our love and support to brothers and sisters around the world and especially in those areas where trauma and abuse are most prevalent.
These scriptures compel us to examine our own lives. Are we, like Ruth, willing to step out in faith and loyalty, even when it is difficult? Do we, like the Good Samaritan, reach out to those in need, regardless of their background or our differences?
As we reflect on the connection between Ruth and the teachings of Jesus in Luke, let us be inspired to live out the Golden Rule with renewed commitment. Let us strive to create communities of love and support, where kindness and compassion are the guiding lights of our life together. May we follow Ruth's example and embrace Jesus' teachings, seeking to transform our world through the simple yet profound act of treating others as we wish to be treated.
In the name of Christ, who taught us to love deeply and live justly, let us give the gift of loyalty and make a difference in our world. Remember, we are being transformed by God for the sake of others.
Grace & Peace,
Pastor T
Reflect: Loyalty is the quality of staying firm in your friendship or support for someone or something. Loyalty is the picture of higher moral qualities—truthfulness, diligence, integrity, faithfulness. Often it may mean putting the interests of another above personal gain or pleasure. It is that quality ,which leads a person to do their duty, at whatever cost to themselves, even to the extent of paying the supreme price.
Loyalty may be manifested by going over and beyond the status quo, by maintaining a confidence when sorely tempted to talk, by keeping patient when there is not a clear understanding of a situation. In other words, it means living the golden rule. It is the opposite of the very human tendency to "look out for number one," or, to place the law of self-preservation before the divine law, "in honor preferring one another. It brings faithfulness, commitment, devotion, and allegiance. How does the Book of Ruth remind you of how Christ is our Redeemer?
Spiritual Practice: Take a journal and your Bible and pray and meditate on the words of Ruthin Ruth 1:16-17. Read through three times underlining words or phrases that speak to you. Ask the Holy Spirit to show you a relationship or situation where he is inviting you into greater acts of loyalty. What does this mean in relation to your time, gifts and resources.
Gather: Share with your small group what you sense God telling you through your spiritual practice. Pray for one another to give the gift of loyalty wherever God is calling.
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