Today is Monday 19th of October 2009.
Ruth 4
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It is a Jewish custom that Boaz has to discuss the matter of marriage to his relatives and at the town gate he cleverly presented his case to his older brother. First he brought in new information not yet mentioned in the story. That Elimelech, Naomi's former husband, still had some property in the area that was now for sale. As the nearest relative, this man had the first right to buy the land, which he agreed to do. But then Boaz said that according to the law, if the relative bought the property he also had to marry the widow of Elimelech's son (Ruth), who has the right to inherit the property.
At this stipulation, the relative backed down. He did not want to complicate his inheritance. He may have feared that if he had a son through Ruth, some estate would be transfer away from his family to the family of Elimelech. What ever his reason, the way was now clear for Boaz to marry Ruth.
Ruth's love for her mother-in-law was known and recognized throughout the town. From the beginning of the book of Ruth to the end, her kindness toward others remained unchanged.
You will notice that God brought great blessing out of Naomi's tragedy. This is because, Naomi continued to trust God. This could also happen to anybody, if in time of distress and doubts, we will continue to pray... "Lord I welcome your trials but remember, my trust in you, will never change." For myself, this is true, for in patience, honesty, sincerity and endurance, God will always listen to your prayers and you will have his blessings.
In reality, the events recorded in Ruth were part of God's preparations for the births of David and of Jesus, the promised Messiah.
What have you learned from the story. Please share, and click reply. Antiphon I lift up my heart to you, O Lord, and you will hear my morning prayer.
My brothers and sisters in Christ. Good Morning ! To prepare ourselves for today's journey lets call to mind our sins and ask God for forgiveness for he is full of gentleness and compassion.
Lord have mercy............Lord have mercy. Christ have mercy..................Christ have mercy. Lord have mercy............Lord have mercy.
May the Almighty God have mercy on us, forgive our sins, and bring us to life everlasting, Amen.
Psalm 29 The Lord's voice resounding on the waters, the Lord on the immensity of waters; the voice of the Lord, full of power, the voice of the Lord, full of splendor.
Psalm prayer You live for ever, Lord and King. All things of the earth justly sing your glory and honor. Strengthen your people against evil, that we may rejoice in your peace and trust in your eternal promise. Amen.
Remember Lord, those who have died and have gone before us marked with the sign of faith, especially N & N. May these and all who sleep in Christ, find in your presence light, happiness, and peace. May you bring them the eternal rest and let the perpetual light shine upon them. Amen.
Lord Jesus, have compassion on all those suffering from known ailment. Heal them to wholeness of body and spirit. Relieve their fears, aches and pains, anxieties and even depressions, through the powerful intercession of venerable Pope John Paul II, Saint Padre Pio and Our Lady of the Barangay, Amen.
Holy Spirit giver of life, power and wisdom, be our guide and guard us from harm. Amen. Theotokos, pray for us, and all those who call on thee. Amen.
Reflections: Luke 12: 13-21 The rich man in Jesus story died before he could begin to use what was stored in his big barns. Planning for retirement and preparing for a good life before death is wise, like having vacation houses all over the USA, and another one in the Philippines is a terrific idea. However do you have any provision for your eternal life after death? How will you distribute your wealth without causing burden to all those you left behind on earth. At this time enjoy your spiritual life also, established your legacy for those needy people. That will always be tax exempt and no one will quarrel over your legacy. Think about that.
Say one "Our Father and Hail Mary" for our own intentions, and the healing intentions of this prayers.
Have a pleasant day. Deacon Gary
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