Ruth and Naomi

The stories of several people in the Bible are woven together so closely that they are almost
inseparable. We know more about their relationship than we know about them as individuals.
And in an age that worships individualism, their stories become helpful models of good
relationships. Naomi and Ruth are beautiful examples of this blending of lives. Their cultures,
family backgrounds, and ages were very different. As mother-in- law and daughter-in- law, they
probably had as many opportunities for tension as for tenderness. And yet they were bound to
each other.

They shared deep sorrow, great affection for one another, and an overriding commitment to the
God of Israel. And yet as much as they depended on each other, they also gave each other
freedom in their commitment to one another.
God was at the center of their intimate communication. Ruth came to know the God of Israel
through Naomi. The older woman allowed Ruth to see, hear, and feel all the joy and anguish of
her relationship to God.

God’s living presence in a relationship overcomes differences that might otherwise create
division and disharmony. Through our monthly Women’s Ruth and Naomi nights, we strive to
live this out. It is a time when we do just the things Ruth and Naomi did for each other. We
encourage one another in our walk with the Lord, while sharing in one another’s sorrows and
joys. We meet the second Sunday night of the month at 6:30.