First Christian Church in Plainville
We are living in unprecedented times, at least in recent history. Churches, just like many other organizations, are suffering from the consequences of the Coronavirus. We can be thankful that we are able to provide video services so our congregation and others can still receive the word of God.
There is no doubt that we are all going to suffer loss because of this crisis. Pastor Brian told us during his video message on Sunday loss is a part of life. It certainly was a part of the life of Ruth, who was the topic of Chapter 9 from The Story. Ruth had a lesson for us however—just because you experience loss doesn’t mean your life is a loss. It is how you respond to the loss that is important.
Ruth was the daughter-in-law of Naomi. Naomi and her husband Elimelech had two sons, and because of the famine in Judah, they chose to move to the country of Moab. Both sons married Moabite women, one of them being Ruth. Unfortunately, both Elimelech and his two sons died, leaving Naomi and her two daughter-in-laws alone.
It is Ruth’s insistence that she stay with Naomi and her decisions on how to overcome her loss that should be a lesson for all of us. Ultimately God blesses the Israelite people through Ruth. She continued to move forward despite her losses. She worked hard and remained loyal even though her life didn’t exactly turn out like she had hoped.
Can you relate to that? How many of us have had our lives turn out exactly like we expected? We all had dreams and expectations growing up, but it is not unusual at all for things to go much differently than we expected. Does that mean it is bad? Not at all. Often times those setbacks or changes in plans can lead to bigger and better things if we respond in the right way.
Today, as we all experience loss in our lives because of what is happening in our world, let us keep in mind the response of Ruth to her loss. Don’t be bitter, but be better.
First Christian Church in Plainville will continue to offer online services through You Tube and Facebook for all who want to stay in touch and in the Word during these crazy times. If you have any needs, please let our church leadership help.
