An ancient story comes to life with new meaning when we look at the names that were involved.
Orpah means “neck,” “girl with a full
mane,” or “rain cloud.” Some take these images to mean “stubborn.” Ruth means “friend,”
“companion,” or “vision of beauty.” Both pledge to stay with Naomi which means
“pleasantness.” However, in the face of bitter disappointment and searing logic, Stubborn turns back while
Friendship stays firm. And it creates a story of unparalleled beauty.
Isn’t it the same with us? Crisis and logic can
twist us around and steal our vision. Our friendship with God is the stabilizing
factor in our lives, and it puts the starch in our moral commitments. Stability and
starch are necessary if we are to bring our Vision of Beauty to life on this
earth.
In short, Pleasantness is fragile. It
needs an unreasonable Friend.
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