Mothers and Daughters

The relationship that developed between Naomi and Ruth seemed highly unlikely. Naomi was from Israel, while Ruth was from Moab. These nations were, in fact, historic enemies.

The women met only because Naomi’s husband, Elimelech, had uprooted their family during a famine and moved them to Moab. There, Ruth married one of Naomi’s sons.

Before long, disaster struck as Elimelech and their two sons died. After she decided to return to Israel, Naomi assumed that Orpah and Ruth, her widowed daughters-in-law, would remain in Moab and remarry.

Orpah opted to stay behind, but Ruth surprised Naomi by refusing to let her go alone. Ruth expressed her profound love in these unforgettable words: Where you go, I will go, and where you lodge, I will lodge. Your people shall be my people, and your God, my Go (Ruth 1:16).

When they arrived in Bethlehem, Naomi began providing Ruth with sound motherly advice. Ruth, in turn, demonstrated devotion and love for Naomi. Thus they truly became like mother and daughter.

The attitude of these women reminds us that our relationship to our mothers is a cornerstone of our faith. God commanded us to honor your father and your mother (Exodus 20:12).

Today, remember to honor your mother if she is alive. If you have a mother-in-law, give her that same honor. Celebrate every opportunity to show the love of God.