“All that you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband has been fully told to me and how you left the land and came to a people that you did not know before.” Ruth 2:11
Life’s journey begins with a name. It provides context and significance to one’s identification and origin. I love discovering the meaning of names and asking others’ about their origin. This can lead to great discussions about their food and culture (two of my favorite subjects). My husband and I took great care in selecting the names of our children and giving them both an English and Chinese name. We hope they will live out the meaning of their names and can connect to their heritage. One way I try to help them connect to their dual cultures is by alternating our evening meals with Asian and American cuisines.
The book of Ruth allowed me to see a greater connection to what forms identity and that country of origin plays a less significant role. This book of the Bible has a few notable characters. At the beginning, I see their notoriety and by the end I see their identity revealed. Identity is central to how one views themselves. My own identity also shapes my view of others. While writing this post, I’m challenged by my own identity and what I want to be known for by others. Those closest to me know my true identity and hopefully challenge me to live it out.
Known by Name
The three major characters in the book of Ruth are Naomi, Ruth and Boaz. Each of them is identified by name and their country of origin. Ruth is from Moab and her name means friendship. Naomi’s the wife of the late ElimeIech an Ephrathite of Bethlehem, her name means pleasant. After coming back to Bethlehem, Naomi tried to change her name to Mara which means bitter, very telling of how she identified with her current circumstances (Ruth 1:20). Boaz’s name has an unknown meaning; however, it is the name of one of the pillars in front of the temple. A name is only the start to uncovering identity.
Known by Work
At the beginning of the story, Ruth and Naomi became widows. This conflict drew them closer in friendship and faith. As Naomi was older, Ruth took upon herself the care of their household. Upon arriving to Bethlehem at the beginning of the barley harvest, she set out to find a field and farmer that she could find favor and glean from his land. She landed in the field of Boaz and worked diligently for herself and mother-in-law until the end of the harvest season. Boaz was a worthy, wealthy landowner on whom the favor of Ruth and Naomi found rest. He took it upon himself to provide a secure future for generations to come.
Known by Character
Naomi was discerning in her plight as a widow. She journeyed to her homeland and the people of God. In Bethlehem, she could find a kinsman redeemer. The entire town was stirred by their arrival and watched the character of both women grow. At the end of the story, both women are revered by the people and elders, “We are witnesses. May the Lord make the woman, who is coming into your house, like Rachel and Leah, who together built up the house of Israel.” (Ruth 4:11) Ruth was a foreigner who became known for her sacrificial lifestyle and trust in the God of her mother-in-law. Boaz was known by his wealth, authority and hospitality. He was an upright man who took his redeemer role seriously. He honored Ruth and her proposal.
Known by God
As Ruth journeyed her identity became clearer. She was getting closer to her destiny. She was being grafted into God’s family as the grandmother of King David. My identity becomes clearer as I journey with active trust in the one who created me. Identity is not defined but developed by your name, your work, and your character. Identity is revealed in the journey. A journey – from birth to life to death – revealing your faith or lack thereof in God. At my final destination, my identity will be crystal clear. It is given before I’m born and driven by a life of faith in God – the author and finisher.
Journey to Identity
Name. Work. Character. God
Where is your journey taking you to discovering your identity? How can active trust or faith play a role?
Photo credit: RJP Photography