In Ruth 1, Naomi and her family move to Moab due to a severe famine in the land. They settle there until Naomi's husband and two sons pass away. Naomi is hurt and mourning her husband and sons. They decide to return to Judah since the famine has since subsided. Naomi's two Moabite daughter-in-laws head back with her. The Moabite women were not looked on favorably by the Israelites. They were considered as outcasts. Naomi tells them to go back to their own homes since she has nothing left for them. Orpah does go back but Ruth refuses to leave Naomi's side. At the end of the chapter, Naomi is open and honest about the state of heart heart, emptiness, and pain. Hope is still glimmering through. Naomi is not truly alone, Ruth is with her and God has an upcoming provision, rescue, and redemption planned. They don't see it just yet, but they arrive "at the beginning of the barley harvest." It's not just the beginning of a harvest, it's the beginning of the rest of their lives. It's the beginning of their blessing, their healing, their redemption, their joy - their everything. It all starts in Bethlehem which is where it all starts for each of us as well. Everything starts with Jesus.
