June 13, 2024

Dear Central Church,

A historian once wrote, “Well behaved women seldom make history.” This quote has taken on a life of its own and has undoubtedly been applied to a number of situations the author never intended. In its original context, however, historian Laurel Thatcher Ulrich was describing the disinterest of historians in studying the lives of women. Unfortunately, only women who dared to misbehave were mentioned in history books. 

The Bible, however, records in great detail the courage and faithfulness of women, none more famous than Ruth, who has an entire book of the Bible devoted to her story. We’re halfway through this sermon series, and this is quickly becoming my favorite OT story. 

Ruth is an interesting character, for in some ways she behaves quite nicely, and in other ways she misbehaves. Her mischief isn’t nefarious or self-serving. Rather, it is daring, courageous, and selfless. The lesson seems to be that at the right time and in the right place, a girl has to do what a girl has to do! 

That is certainly true in Ruth 3. That’s where we’ll be this Sunday, and you may want to read ahead. However, if you’re prone to pearl-clutching, I do not recommend doing so in the original Hebrew. 

All innuendos and double-entendres aside, the question remains, “Where is God in this story?” He is present and active with Ruth and Boaz on the threshing floor, and there we find him on the threshing floor of our lives as well. Join us this Sunday as we continue to walk through this “Love Story” and experience for ourselves “the Gospel According to Ruth.” 

Don't forget: Vacation Bible School begins on Tuesday, June 18. Let’s pray for this event, asking God to use it to draw kids and families closer to Him. One of the easiest ways to introduce a family to Central is inviting them to VBS. I’ll be there, and I can’t wait to meet the new families God is going to send to Central.

Until He’s Finished,
Pastor Mark