From Moab to Bethlehem

Laurie Pandorf: Ruth’s Road to Redemption

We are back with another beautiful review of Love and Loyalty, this time by my colleague at PraiseWriters, Laurie Pandorf. I hope you enjoy!

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“Every good and perfect gift comes from above.” (James 1:17)

I love a good story. Whether I’m reading one or viewing one, it’s how I learn about people, human nature, and the influences that drive their actions. Although the story itself intrigues me, I’m more drawn to the characters -exploring their flaws, their brokenness, their grit and ultimately their desire for transformation.

So, when I was invited to review a new bible study by Alli Koscal- focused on the Book of Ruth, I knew journeying alongside two women seeking hope after facing tragic circumstances would offer a rich narrative for contemplation and growth.

Photo by Stephanie Ellice on Unsplash

To begin, I loved the structure Alli created: seven weeks of study, five lessons per week, each week focused on unique themes, (cleverly written with alliteration I might add), enhancing the title, Love and Loyalty: Heart Lessons from the Book of Ruth. I especially appreciated the original prayers shared at the end of each of the five days, as they provided a pause for the reader to reflect and receive the spiritual gifts presented in scripture as well as the study.

Although I enjoyed the weekly content, each seamlessly connected to one another, Lesson Two on Devotion and Determination resonated with me the most. It picks up at the end of chapter one, when Naomi strongly urges her widowed daughters-in-law to return to their respective homes to seek solace and start again; Orpah tearfully complies while Ruth steadfastly remains with Naomi. This is a turning point in the lives of all three women and becomes the impetus for Ruth’s conversion.

As a cradle Catholic, I continue to be fascinated by people who choose to convert to our faith, especially since I stepped away for close to twenty-five years before reverting back. Like Ruth, I too was faced with a family crisis, which brought me to my knees, begging God for help. Although Ruth is embracing Judaism, her emotional response in “clinging” to Naomi seems to express a mysterious human need for spiritual wholeness that can only be found in relationship with God which is confirmed in the Catechism:

“The desire for God is written in the human heart, because man is created by God and for God; and God never ceases to draw man to himself. Only in God will he find the truth and happiness he never stops searching for.” (CCC 27)

In this lesson and throughout the study, Alli draws the readers’ attention to various Greek and Hebrew words that add depth to this short Book and also offer perspectives that could be missed if not highlighted by her carefully placed reflections. Her choice of scripture from various Books of wisdom, prophecy and the Gospels guides the reader into remembering the unconditional love God has for his children and the timelessness of His covenant promises. More importantly, the tone and voice employed in her writing made me feel as though I was journeying through this study with a friend and sister.

Photo by The Walters Art Museum on Unsplash

That’s why I connected so closely with Lesson Two, as it focused on aspects of female companionship and the gifts of the Feminine Genius, which Alli included. Like Ruth and Naomi who supported one another, I too leaned into fellow Catholic women during my own reversion story. Whether it was through prayer groups, podcasts, my writing community or my parish, it was my sisters in Christ who listened, embraced, and guided me on my spiritual journey back to God.

It’s no surprise, therefore, as Alli points out, “Interestingly, it is the women of the town (Bethlehem) who take notice of the pair and recognize Naomi,” and “were excited to see them” (Ruth 1: 19). She goes on to say, “Our relationships with one another can be such treasures.”

Photo by Briana Tozour on Unsplash

As this story unfolds, the trust between mother and daughter-in-law blossoms. Buoyed by Ruth’s devotion to her, Naomi begins instructing Ruth in the Israelite ways and customs regarding her interactions with Boaz, while Ruth willingly responds. In this happy ending, a wedding and a baby not only blesses them, but an entire nation and the world as Jesus becomes the final fulfillment in this line of descendants originating from Bethlehem.

Whether it’s Ruth, Naomi, Leah, Esther, Anna, Alli, Laurie or me, as daughters of God, we are all part of the same family and sisterhood receiving, celebrating and sharing in “every good and perfect gift from above.” May you discover divine treasures and insights as you study, reflect and walk with Ruth.

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If you would like to experience the powerful & redeeming love of God for yourself, I invite you to journey with Ruth in my new bible study, Love and Loyalty: Heart Lessons from the Book of Ruth. May your journey be blessed!!