FIRST THINGS FIRST

Suggested Reading: Ruth 2

Ruth 2:11-12 Boaz answered her: "Everything you have done for your mother-in-law, since your husband's death has been fully reported to me: (how) you left your father and mother, and the land of your birth, and how you came to a people you didn't previously know. May the Lord reward you for what you have done and may you receive a full reward from the Lord God of Israel, under whose wings you have come for refuge."

Ruth had taken a big risk going with Naomi. She had truly left behind everything she knew. She had truly surrendered her life to God's will. She didn't know if they'd survive the journey, let alone find a place to live or what kind of life it would be. She didn't know if they'd be accepted or outcast or where her next meal was coming from. She went because she knew it was the right thing to do, and because he love for Naomi was stronger than her love for herself.

I don't know about you but I love myself too much sometimes. I save the last piece of cake or candy for myself, perhaps. I make plans for something I really want to do without regard for what my wife wants and then drag her along. Sometimes she doesn't mind, but is this really loving her the way I should? How many times do we all put ourselves first? How different is this attitude from that of the one who died on a cross for us? Jesus put us first.

We need to constantly remember not just the price of the cross, but the attitude behind it. The sacrificial lifestyle of our Savior is one we are called to ourselves. Ruth knew what sacrificial living was all about. We need to teach ourselves, until it's our first choice, not our last choice.

Prayer: Lord, help me to follow your example and live a sacrificial life. In a world that encourages me first thinking, let me put your people first, just as you did. Amen.