As we journey together through the book of Ruth, we’re considering how the Gospel is made known through this woman’s story. Ruth is a book about God’s hesed love – his unstoppable, never-changing, always & forver love. Yet, this love is displayed in the context of pain and suffering. This is seen in the three main characters in the story: Ruth, Naomi, and Boaz. Ultimately, we see this “love in pain” expressed in the person of Jesus Christ.
For further reading related to “The Gospel According to Ruth” sermon series, check out the following books:
A Loving Life: In a World of Broken Relationships by Paul Miller. Devotional and insightful reflections on Ruth.
Lament for a Son by Nicholas Wolterstorff. A Christian philosopher at Yale who wrote about the experience of losing a son to a climbing accident. The book is full of journal entries that are very moving and helpful – both to those caring and in bereavement.
A Grief Observed by C.S. Lewis. A classic reflection on the fundamental issues of life, death, and faith in the midst of loss.
Walking with God Through Pain and Suffering by Tim Keller. Joni Eareckson Tada, a quadriplegic since age 17, said this is the best book she’s ever read on suffering.
