The NIV 365 Day Devotional
Love That Goes
In this tragic story of Naomi, we see love in action through her daughter-in-law Ruth. Grieving her husband and sons, and broken beyond her ability to see straight, the widow Naomi chose to return home in defeat and bitterness. And yet, Ruth followed her.
Ruth chose to leave her life behind to serve her mother-in-law. She sacrificed her livelihood and everything she knew to be familiar for the sake of this bereaved widow. Though she was grieving her own losses, she valued the safety and companionship of the broken over the pursuit of her own ease and comfort.
This kind of love foreshadows what Jesus did for us. He left the perfection and beauty of heaven to follow a grieving humanity. He sacrificed everything familiar in order to experience life with us on this dusty earth. And then, he willingly laid down his life for all of us. He braved and endured the cross so that we could experience genuine life.
Did you know we are more like Jesus when we show practical, hands-and-feet love to those God has placed in front of us? Love is not just saying eloquent words of dedication. No, love involves an active pursuit. Love goes. Love pursues. Love inconveniences itself. Oh, to love like that!
Jesus, thank you for demonstrating what love looks like in your actions and your life. Please give me your strength to pursue others in love and service. Put “love” opportunities in my path this week, and help me to embrace them. Amen.
What relative (alive or passed away) in your life is known by his or her Ruth-ness? Who showed you what love looks like? If that person is still alive, write a thank-you card to them today.
Taken from the NIV Radiant Virtues Bible.