Ruth 2:1-23
The story of Ruth teaches us that hardships are opportunities to turn to God in faith. God purposely orchestrated things in their lives and worked out his plan for their good in spite of famine and the loss of loved ones. What stands out to me as we study Ruth is the kindness shown not only by God toward Naomi, Ruth, and Boaz but also by them toward each other.
In March of this year, I got a call no parent ever wants to receive. Our youngest son had been body surfing in Mexico and was hit by a rogue wave that tumbled him to the bottom head first breaking and crushing almost every cervical vertebrae. It is a long story, but he was flown to Houston Memorial Hospital where he had a complicated revision surgery, he had clots in his lungs, leaking spinal fluid, and very little feeling on his right side. He was in critical condition for weeks and then in rehab for several weeks. I was with him for a month along with other family and friends who came and went. He had a traumatic spinal cord injury and three complications that could have taken his life. I prayed a lot.
Through it all, God provided kind people who brought food and came to visit from Austin. When I was lost in the massive hospital at first, someone always showed up to help me—my angels! Even the shuttle drivers where I was staying became friends and always asked how our son was doing, and we had good talks. The medical and rehab staff were amazing and kind as well.
I will never forget the kind people I met in Houston though it was the worst nightmare of my life. I’m a cancer survivor and that was bad, but this was my baby–so much worse! Meanwhile, people at home were praying for us and that gave me strength to keep going.
Jared is walking, back to work, traveling some, and doing well. There are still challenges, but we are grateful he is still with us and doing well. God provided me personally with so many “helpers” along the way. He answered prayers. He provided Jar with great friends, doctors, nurses, and therapists he’ll never forget. Our son encouraged so many people he came in contact with and I saw how truly kind he is to others.
God was faithful and provided kind people at every turn during that really hard time in March, just as he was faithful and kind to Naomi, Ruth, and Boaz.
The world isn’t always kind, but we can be a light by letting God’s kindness shine.
Deb Hill
Exec. Assistant