[From the version for families with children]

We come to the end of our Tuesday story in Advent.  Ruth and Boaz marry and have the baby, Obed.  He’s the grandfather of King David.  It’s from the family line of David that Jesus will find his historical connection through Mary, his fatherly connection to God.  

Let’s think about what is obvious throughout this story: that God can take someone on the outside and bring that person into the center.  It’s like a basketball game that you’d like to get into, but you’re just standing on the sidelines.  You’d love to play, but you’re just not in the “in group.”  Then something happens.  Someone tosses you the ball and invites you in.  Then you make the final shot that wins the game—right from the center of the court!  Hurray, you’re a hero!  That’s what God did in this story of Ruth: a lady on the sidelines of all the actions gets to come into the center!  There’s hope for us!   Merry Christmas!  

Ruth 4

What are Bible Breaths? Learn More…
Example: Redeemed by Your faithful love

Tuesdays are dedicated to the Old Testament books of history
and the Hebrew “Writings.”
In the season of Advent this year, we read the Book of Ruth.

For all the Firestarters I recommend the ebook.  You will have the entire program of well over a thousand of these introductions with you on your phone or tablet. Check the menu options at the site for more information

[From the original version]

 Are you tempted to give up on God, saying to yourself: “He just doesn’t hear me?” Take the first verse to heart. Repeat it often until the power of its truth loosens comfort and joy within you.

Someone once said; “If God seems far away, guess who moved?” Verse 2 echoes this truth. Isaiah provokes and incites with his images, confronting us with the full awareness that sinful behavior places barriers that separate us from the Lord. Each of us is responsible for this separation.

Habits that break communion with the Lord tend to progress into circles that become more and more vicious. Isolation is the outcome. This Advent prophet will shake your foundations until you are resting only in the Lord Jesus who is about to come.

Isaiah 59:1–15a
Example: Your hand reaching out for me v. 1

Mondays are dedicated to the reading of the Hebrew Prophets.
In the seasons of Advent through Epiphany this year we read Isaiah 56 to 66.

What are “Bible Breaths”? Learn More…

For all the Firestarters I recommend the ebook.  You will have the entire program of well over a thousand of these introductions with you on your phone or tablet. Check the menu options at the site for more information.