Embodying Divine Love: Lessons from Ruth and Educators
Summary
### Summary
Today, we gathered to celebrate the beginning of a new school year, honoring our students and educators. We prayed over our students, from the youngest to those pursuing advanced degrees, encouraging them to remember their calling to share the gospel and be agents of peace, love, and hope in their schools. We also prayed for our educators, recognizing their vital role in shaping the lives of our children and supporting them in their journey of faith.
I shared a personal story about reconnecting with two influential teachers from my past, highlighting the lasting impact educators can have on their students. This led us to invite all current educators to come forward for a special prayer and a small gift, acknowledging their dedication and the challenges they face.
We then transitioned into a new sermon series on the Book of Ruth, emphasizing the importance of understanding the Old Testament to fully appreciate the New Testament. Ruth's story, set during a chaotic time in Israel's history, showcases God's grace and redemption through the ordinary lives of people. Ruth's loyalty and compassion towards her mother-in-law, Naomi, exemplify the Hebrew concept of "chesed," a divine love that goes above and beyond.
Ruth's decision to leave everything familiar to support Naomi mirrors the sacrificial love of Christ. This story foreshadows the ultimate act of divine "chesed" in Jesus, who stepped into our brokenness to journey with us and offer us hope and salvation. As we come to the table for Holy Communion, we remember Christ's sacrifice and are reminded that we are called to embody this same love and compassion in our lives.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Power of Community and Support: As we prayed over our students, we emphasized the importance of community and support. Each student is part of a larger family at St. Paul, and they are called to be agents of peace, love, and hope in their schools. This sense of belonging and mission can empower them to make a positive impact in their educational environments. [12:16]
2. The Lasting Impact of Educators: The story of reconnecting with my former teachers, J.W. and Vicki Lawrence, illustrates the profound and lasting impact educators can have on their students. Their patience, love, and encouragement shaped my life significantly. This serves as a reminder to all educators of the importance of their role and the difference they make in the lives of their students. [18:37]
3. Understanding "Chesed" Through Ruth: The Hebrew word "chesed" encompasses divine compassion, loyalty, kindness, and faithfulness. Ruth's unwavering loyalty to Naomi, despite the hardships, exemplifies this concept. Her actions go above and beyond, demonstrating a sacrificial love that mirrors the love of Christ. [47:50]
4. Foreshadowing Christ's Sacrifice: Ruth's story is a foreshadowing of the ultimate act of divine "chesed" in Jesus Christ. Just as Ruth left everything familiar to support Naomi, Jesus stepped into our brokenness to journey with us and offer us hope and salvation. This connection between the Old and New Testaments enriches our understanding of God's redemptive plan. [49:19]
5. The Call to Embody Divine Love: As we come to the table for Holy Communion, we are reminded of Christ's sacrificial love and are called to embody this same love and compassion in our lives. We are to be agents of reconciliation and hope, journeying with others in their struggles and sharing the love of Christ through our actions and words. [58:01]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[12:16] - Prayer for Students
[13:30] - Blessing the School Year
[16:18] - Embracing Chaos
[17:29] - Reconnecting with Influential Teachers
[18:37] - Impact of Educators
[19:58] - Prayer for Educators
[21:16] - Call to Generosity
[29:16] - Stewardship and Mission
[40:13] - Introduction to Ruth
[41:36] - Israel's Cycle of Faith
[43:08] - Naomi's Struggle
[45:08] - Ruth's Loyalty
[47:50] - Understanding "Chesed"
[49:19] - Foreshadowing Christ
[50:20] - Ruth's Legacy
[51:24] - Invitation to Communion
[58:01] - Embodying Divine Love
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Ruth 1:16-17 (NIV): "But Ruth replied, 'Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Where you die I will die, and there I will be buried. May the Lord deal with me, be it ever so severely, if even death separates you and me.'"
2. John 15:13 (NIV): "Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends."
3. Micah 6:8 (NIV): "He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."
### Observation Questions
1. What does Ruth's declaration to Naomi in Ruth 1:16-17 reveal about her character and commitment?
2. How does the sermon describe the impact of educators on their students, as illustrated by the pastor's personal story? [18:37]
3. What is the significance of the Hebrew word "chesed" as explained in the sermon, and how does Ruth exemplify this concept? [47:50]
4. How does the sermon connect Ruth's loyalty to Naomi with the sacrificial love of Christ? [49:19]
### Interpretation Questions
1. In what ways does Ruth's loyalty to Naomi reflect the qualities of "chesed" mentioned in the sermon? How does this deepen our understanding of divine love? [47:50]
2. How can the story of Ruth and Naomi help us understand the importance of community and support in our own lives, especially in challenging times? [12:16]
3. What parallels can be drawn between Ruth's decision to leave her homeland and Jesus' sacrifice for humanity? How does this enhance our appreciation of Christ's love? [49:19]
4. How does the pastor's story about his former teachers illustrate the lasting impact of educators, and what does this teach us about the importance of mentorship and guidance in our faith journey? [18:37]
### Application Questions
1. Reflecting on Ruth's loyalty and sacrificial love, how can you demonstrate "chesed" in your relationships this week? Is there someone in your life who needs your unwavering support? [47:50]
2. The sermon emphasized the power of community and support. How can you actively contribute to building a supportive community within your school, workplace, or church? [12:16]
3. Considering the lasting impact of educators, think of a teacher or mentor who has significantly influenced your life. How can you express your gratitude to them this week? [18:37]
4. Ruth's story foreshadows Christ's ultimate sacrifice. How can you embody Christ's sacrificial love in your daily interactions? Are there specific actions you can take to show this love to others? [49:19]
5. During Holy Communion, we are reminded of Christ's sacrifice. How can this reminder inspire you to be an agent of reconciliation and hope in your community? [58:01]
6. The sermon called us to embody divine love and compassion. Identify one person in your life who is struggling. What practical steps can you take to journey with them and offer support? [58:01]
7. Reflect on the concept of "chesed" and how it goes above and beyond ordinary kindness. How can you incorporate this divine love into your actions and decisions this week? [47:50]
Devotional
### Day 1: The Power of Community and Support
As we embark on a new school year, it is essential to recognize the power of community and support. Each student, from the youngest to those pursuing advanced degrees, is part of a larger family at St. Paul. This sense of belonging is not just about being part of a group but about being agents of peace, love, and hope in their educational environments. When students understand that they are supported by their church community, they are empowered to make a positive impact in their schools. This support system can be a source of strength and encouragement, helping them to navigate the challenges they may face.
The community's role is to pray for and encourage these students, reminding them of their calling to share the gospel and embody Christ's love. This collective support can significantly influence their ability to be agents of change, promoting a culture of kindness and compassion in their schools. As we prayed over our students, we emphasized this importance, knowing that a strong community can help them thrive both academically and spiritually. [12:16]
Bible Passage:
"Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing." (1 Thessalonians 5:11, ESV)
Reflection:
Think of a student or young person in your life. How can you actively support and encourage them in their educational journey this week?
### Day 2: The Lasting Impact of Educators
Educators play a crucial role in shaping the lives of their students. The story of reconnecting with influential teachers, J.W. and Vicki Lawrence, illustrates the profound and lasting impact that educators can have. Their patience, love, and encouragement significantly shaped the speaker's life, serving as a powerful reminder of the importance of their role. Educators are not just imparting knowledge; they are molding character, instilling values, and inspiring dreams.
This impact is often felt long after students have left the classroom. The dedication and challenges faced by educators are immense, yet their influence can be life-changing. By acknowledging and praying for our educators, we recognize their vital role and the difference they make in the lives of their students. This acknowledgment serves as an encouragement for educators to continue their important work, knowing that their efforts are valued and appreciated. [18:37]
Bible Passage:
"Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance." (Proverbs 1:5, ESV)
Reflection:
Reflect on a teacher or mentor who has significantly impacted your life. How can you express your gratitude to them this week?
### Day 3: Understanding "Chesed" Through Ruth
The Hebrew word "chesed" encompasses divine compassion, loyalty, kindness, and faithfulness. Ruth's unwavering loyalty to her mother-in-law, Naomi, despite the hardships, exemplifies this concept. Her actions go above and beyond, demonstrating a sacrificial love that mirrors the love of Christ. Ruth's story, set during a chaotic time in Israel's history, showcases God's grace and redemption through the ordinary lives of people.
Ruth's decision to leave everything familiar to support Naomi is a powerful example of "chesed." This divine love is not just about feelings but about actions that reflect God's character. Ruth's loyalty and compassion are a testament to the transformative power of "chesed," encouraging us to embody this same love in our relationships. By understanding and practicing "chesed," we can reflect God's love and faithfulness in our daily lives. [47:50]
Bible Passage:
"The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." (Lamentations 3:22-23, ESV)
Reflection:
Think of a relationship in your life where you can demonstrate "chesed." What specific actions can you take to show loyalty, kindness, and faithfulness this week?
### Day 4: Foreshadowing Christ's Sacrifice
Ruth's story is a foreshadowing of the ultimate act of divine "chesed" in Jesus Christ. Just as Ruth left everything familiar to support Naomi, Jesus stepped into our brokenness to journey with us and offer us hope and salvation. This connection between the Old and New Testaments enriches our understanding of God's redemptive plan. Ruth's sacrificial love mirrors the love of Christ, who gave His life for us.
This foreshadowing helps us see the continuity of God's plan throughout the Bible. Ruth's actions point to the greater sacrifice of Jesus, who embodies the ultimate "chesed." By reflecting on Ruth's story, we gain a deeper appreciation for Christ's sacrifice and are reminded of the hope and salvation He offers. This understanding calls us to live in a way that reflects Christ's love and sacrifice in our own lives. [49:19]
Bible Passage:
"For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." (Mark 10:45, ESV)
Reflection:
Consider how Ruth's sacrificial love mirrors Christ's sacrifice. How can you embody this sacrificial love in your interactions with others today?
### Day 5: The Call to Embody Divine Love
As we come to the table for Holy Communion, we are reminded of Christ's sacrificial love and are called to embody this same love and compassion in our lives. We are to be agents of reconciliation and hope, journeying with others in their struggles and sharing the love of Christ through our actions and words. This call to embody divine love is a central aspect of our faith, challenging us to live out the principles of "chesed" in our daily interactions.
Holy Communion serves as a powerful reminder of Christ's sacrifice and the love He demonstrated. As we partake in this sacred act, we are called to reflect on how we can embody this love in our own lives. This means being present for others, offering support, and showing compassion, even when it is difficult. By embodying divine love, we can be a source of hope and reconciliation in a broken world. [58:01]
Bible Passage:
"By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another." (John 13:35, ESV)
Reflection:
Think of a specific way you can embody Christ's love and compassion in your community this week. What steps can you take to be an agent of reconciliation and hope?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "Remember that you're loved. Remember that you have a home here at St. Paul, that there is a, that there is an army of people that are for you and want to see you. Remember, as you look at that name pack, that, that backpack tag, that like you have a calling to make the name of Jesus known, that in this school system, all you students look at me, all students look at me real quick. Everybody turn. All you students have a calling to share the gospel, to bring forth joy and hope into people's lives." [12:16] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Here at St. Paul, our dream, all these programs, all these things, all these events, all these groups, the fellowship, it's about making the name of Jesus known. We're here to exalt the name of our risen Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. Amen. Amen. We do what we do what we do. And we want you to lean into that journey with us." [30:00] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "So today we have the privilege of coming to the table and know that as we come today where you are, you may be exhausted. There's rest at this table. You may be overwhelmed. Your life may be in a place of chaos. There is peace at this table. You may be in a place of brokenness. Your soul is broken. There is healing at this table." [55:16] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "So today we come remembering, we come remembering the one, the one who was the embodiment of the divine has said, who came going above and beyond out of compassion and grace and mercy, that even though the wages of sin or death, that we may know life, that he came giving himself so that we would be free, that we would no longer be slaves to the bondage of sin, that in the midst of our transgressions, but God so rich in his mercy." [54:12] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "And here's the beautiful thing about communion and the beautiful thing about the gospel is that when we see Ruth, we see a glimpse of Jesus on the pages of the Old Testament, because here's the reality. Just like Ruth. Back into the unknown to journey with Naomi so that she would know hope, so that she would know companionship, so that she would have provision and somebody walking literally through the valley of the shadow of death with her." [53:09] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "Ruth is turning her back on everything she's ever known. We gloss over that in the text. But Ruth was a Moabite. She was a Moabite woman. She's following Naomi to now into a foreign land. So she's leaving the familiarity of her, of her family, of her friends, of a culture that she knows and is a part of. And if you've ever faced hardship or tragedy, familiarity and people around you, that's important. It's important to making it through." [46:18] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "We get to see this demonstration and it's it's hinting to the one that will come. It's hinting to the coming of Jesus. It's hinting at the one who will come to make all things right. This said is on display in Ruth and her love for Naomi. And we get to see just a glimpse of it. But when we begin to read the gospel and we begin to see how God moved on our behalf, we get to see this said at this infinite level of power and love and compassion and that it goes above and beyond and it meets us where we are." [50:20] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "The beauty of this is we see God moving in the midst of the everyday struggles of people. We see God's grace on display. Sometimes God moves in these beautiful movements of weather and kingdoms and military things in the old Testament. But what I love about Ruth is it, it's God moving in the very simplistic acts of ordinary people, just like you and I." [43:08] (20 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "And we see Ruth demonstrate this loyalty, this compassion, this grace that like is going above and beyond, because here's the reality in this. Ruth is turning her back on everything she's ever known. We gloss over that in the text. But Ruth was a Moabite. She was a Moabite woman. She's following Naomi to now into a foreign land. So she's leaving the familiarity of her, of her family, of her friends, of a culture that she knows and is a part of." [46:18] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "And we see Ruth, this foreign Moabite daughter in law of Naomi, demonstrates this beautiful, beautiful movement of saying where you're going to go is where I'm going to go and I'm not leaving you alone. And your fate is going to be my fate. And essentially we're going to figure this out together. And we see Ruth like in this area of familiarity, step into the unfamiliar and begin to take on." [48:33] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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