Thomas Vespers

Intro

Introduce yourself. Where you’re from, family, hobbies, and such.

Pray.

Abuelita Faith

A lesson I learned in that book is this: One’s LIVED experiences can teach the deepest theological truths. In other words, some of the most beautiful theological truths might not come from these scholars with their doctorates. But from the simple faith of our grandmothers and grandfathers.

More often than not, I catch myself doubting someone who has never had previous theological training. But those are the same moments that I realize my prejudice can get in the way!

Body

Ruth 1:1-5 — Naomi’s Family and their Downfall

They were part of God’s people — PROMISED. COVENANT.

Elimelech died.

PATRIARCHY.

Thankfully, she had sons… (May-lawn) (Kih-lee-awn)

Both sons took two Moabite wives!

The mentioning of the sons taking wives is crucial because it suggests that Naomi now has a second chance at regaining her status in life....

But we quickly find out that they both died...

Ruth 1:6-14 — The Pain of the Women

Verses 6-9

Naomi was telling them to leave. To go far.

Ruth 1:15-18 — The Response of Ruth

WHY DID RUTH STAY??

Because Ruth, at some point of her life, was deeply moved by the faith of Naomi.

From our knowledge, Naomi was not a theologian, writing dissertations, preaching sermons, or teaching classes. Naomi had a LIVING FAITH that inspired

Because of Naomi’s faith and inspiration of Ruth, the Savior of the World was able to come through their family line.

Matthew 1

The story of Naomi teaches me this…Your LIFE is the greatest sermon you will ever preach.

CLOSING

My Mama (Dad’s Mom)

As a young child, my Mama lived with us in our home. She was a spiritual ROCK. And I can VIVIDLY remember seeing my grandma in her closet, praying and reading her Bible. My Mama never used high and lofty language to teach us about God. Because she didn’t have to. Her lessons were taught with actions of love, not with mere words. By no means is my Mama perfect. None of us are.

But I can confidently say it is because of my Mama that I have the relationship with Jesus that I have.