In the first sermon in our series on Ruth, Pastor Matthew Watson explores how the story of Ruth fits into the bigger story of God’s redemption. [Ruth 1:1-6, 22]
Creative Response
Empty
By Ife Johnson
Empty. I heard her say, “she went away full and came back empty.”
Empty: defined as containing nothing, or not filled or occupied.
But she came back with me.
Does that mean I am nothing, not filled or occupied; empty?
I may not have the worth of a son,
But surely my company is more than mara;
Has the sweet balm of our friendship only ministered to me?
Empty. Also defined as lacking meaning or sincerity.
Now I know, in me, sincerity is not in want.
I chose a mother over a husband.
Deemed an old widow more worthy than a man.
And I still do.
Where she went, I have followed, and where she remains, I will be.
Her people are now my people, and her God is now my God.
So, El-Shaddai, my God:
As Naomi now counts me as nothing,
I pray that you will make me of value.
As Naomi now lacks meaning,
I pray you will reveal her purpose through me.
Just as Naomi, I too will count myself as empty,
Anxiously waiting to be filled and occupied by You.
