“To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he might be glorified.” Isaiah 61:3
Weary and worn, heartbroken and discouraged, Naomi drew close to Bethlehem. Memories of leaving here years before because of a famine filled her mind. Had it been the right thing to do? She thought of the graves of her husband and sons left now in Moab. She was thankful that Ruth, her daughter-in-law, had been willing to accompany her on the journey. Would she have been able to make it on her own? Her mind filled with questions. Would they have a place to stay? Would the people accept Ruth and treat her kindly?
As her former friends gathered around, they questioned whether it was really her. She told them, “Don’t call me Naomi, call me Mara. I left her full and blessed, but I have returned empty, broken and afflicted.” Ruth 1:21
But God reaches out to broken people, shows them the way back home and in His mercy and love works all things together for good. It may not have been God’s perfect plan for Naomi and her family to go to Moab. But because they did, Ruth came to Bethlehem. As time went by, she found favour with Boaz and eventually became his wife, thus putting her in the lineage of the family from which the Messiah, Jesus, would come.
“And the women said unto Naomi, Blessed be the LORD, which hath not left thee this day without a kinsman, that his name may be famous in Israel.” Ruth 4:14
From broken to blessed. What an exceptional story of the Lord’s love and grace! No matter how far away we may be from God, it only takes one step to begin the return journey.
Is there someone reading this who feels like Naomi? Perhaps you have lost a loved one recently and are feeling forsaken and alone. You question whether the Lord still loves you. He does. He hears your cry and will restore your joy as you seek His face.
Thought For Today: Jesus still gives beauty for ashes.
Devotion by Anne Johnston
