Loss, Lament, and Loyalty
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Sermon Notes by Jan Beekman
from the sermon today
based on the scripture – Mark 12:38-44 –
Preached by Rev. Jean Johnson
at the Madison Valley Presbyterian Church
in Ennis, Montana
Naomi’s son had died.
She was alone and old.
Her future was grim.
What had she been told?
“Deal with your losses –
Send your daughters-in-law
Back to their homes.”
But, the plan had a flaw.
Ruth did not want to return!
She told Naomi she’d stay.
Orpha decided to go back.
Each woman to her own way.
We each have a choice.
We think we’re paralyzed, but we’re not.
We may lack energy and will power;
We may feel in our losses, we’re caught.
Ruth knew she couldn’t run
From the pain life threw at her.
She chose to stay and face her life,
And be in a place she could matter.
To turn evil into something good,
She was loyal to her mother-in-law.
She broke ties with her past
And looked ahead at what she saw.
She saw through eyes of faith.
Naomi had taught her to use God’s eyes –
Do more than just endure;
Keep your faith and be kind and wise.
To endure the evil of today’s world,
Cling to one another in love –
And look out for those in need.
Use your discerning power from God above.
Amen?
Comments on: "Loss, Lament & Loyalty" (4)
Amen
Amen!
Nicely told
Thank you, Derrick.