Everybody knows you are a good woman

 

"Everybody knows you are a good woman." That could be the title of this blog today but can it be the title of my life? There is the real question.

Ever since attending Clarks Chapel Baptist Church regularly, the morning services have been on the book of Ruth. It was quite enlightening to hear in depth (and I mean great depth) this story in such detail. I guess what stood out to me in large part was the relationship between Naomi and Ruth. I mean really: who follows their mother-in-law to a strange land--especially when she is in a "mood"--and then does what she tells her to in such specific detail? Who goes to such extremes to place such high regard to her words and her plans with blind faith?

Ruth did. She did to the letter what Naomi dictated to her and look what it got her: her kinsman redeemer. Without going into too much detail (although you may reference these messages at https://vimeo.com/user18243660/videos), Ruth went and gleaned in the fields, made herself known to the workers and thus to Boaz, and exemplified the role she was to fill in the annals of history by her obedience. Some liken this story to the one of Jesus Christ (our very own Kinsman Redeemer) being portrayed by Boaz and the Bride of Christ as being Ruth. And Naomi? She is compared to the nation of Israel. It's quite fascinating and I hope if you aren't familiar with the story that you will be incited to discover it for yourselves.

But here's what I want to focus on this morning: Ruth 3:11. "And now, my daughter, fear not; I will do to thee all that thou requirest: for all the city of my people doth know that thou art a virtuous woman." Boaz said these words to Ruth as she lie there at his feet, waiting for him to redeem her. Wow. "I know that thou art a virtuous woman."

What a reputation to have--not just to a few but to the whole city! I've heard that expression of "your reputation precedes you" but to have the one who matters most to know it of you? Wow. To do what is asked, simply because you have made such an impression by your character speaking for itself so much so that others can't seem to stop singing your praises? Again I say "Wow."

So, now to the crux of it all: what do others say about you, about me? When our names are uttered, are they done so with much fanfare, much enthusiasm, and much inspiration? Compare it to how some folks would feel if their favorite singer/actor/religious person was coming to town. How many folks would immediately try to do all they could to just be in the presence of such wonder? The other day, for example, I was told of a couple who are interested in becoming members of our church. Dumbfounded--since to my knowledge--that had only attended once (and I wasn't even there), I persisted in asking a few questions to make sure they knew what they were getting involved with. Not in a mean way because who wouldn't want to attend Clarks Chapel Baptist Church? No, rather it was because I was...hmn. What's the word? Not surprised, and certainly not awed nor amazed. I was...astonished, yes that's the word! I was astonished that they could decide so quickly to join but then again I shouldn't be. After all, our church is filled with great folks. The Word of God is taught completely and without any covering up of God's truths. The choir is great! The people are friendly, welcoming, and open up their hearts easily. After all, they let me in, so they must be pretty special. The reputation of my church had drawn them in--and they liked what they saw!

In conclusion, I'd like us all to take a couple of moments and remember that others are always looking at us. Many are often speaking of us. Mostly though, we are constantly preaching a sermon with our lives. Are we enticing others with our pleasantness to want to know us better or are we repelling them away from us with our bitterness? What needs to change? What needs to be continued? I've blogged before on the song "I Always Feel Like Somebody's Watching Me." Someone is, friends. Someone is.

Let's pray!

Dear Lord, how wonderful and proud I am to be a part of a church that allows others to feel welcomed with just one visit! Thank Your for leading Steve and me to Clarks Chapel and for the love we feel from the congregation each time we enter--as well as the love expressed when we aren't able to attend. May our church continue to grow, to flourish, and to shine under Your care.

Now Father, I ask something more personal. Will You please help me to be a part of that? Will You create in me a clean heart, a loving spirit, and a welcoming attitude? Will You temper my heart and my mind to focus on You and will You help me most, Lord, to love like You do? I want my reputation to be without blemish, Lord, but I know my past has ways of exacting its ugly self up at times to try to tear down whom I am today. Thank You, Father, for rebirth. I am not whom I was and I am proud of the works You have accomplished in me (although we both know there is still so much more that needs to be done!). May I continue growing, learning, and loving is my prayer today, asked in the name of Jesus because there is no one else who can do this for me. Amen.