"Walang Iwanan," (Ruth, The Moabitess Story)

How many times have you cried because the ones closest to your heart have disappointed you and left you feeling hurt? Your spouse, parents, family, or friends were supposed to be there for you when you were at your weakest, yet they abandoned you just when you needed them the most (as the song goes).

One of my favorite Bible stories is about Ruth. She is Naomi's devoted daughter-in-law and exemplifies fidelity. Ruth was instructed by Naomi to return to her native homeland, Judah, because her husband—Naomi's son—was already dead. Ruth, however, politely declines her mother-in-law's request because she chooses to keep her company at all costs.

I wish I had someone like Ruth in my life. Someone who is dedicated to standing by me, especially when things are tough, But of course, because of our flaws, we cannot hope for people to be entirely on our side through thick and thin. It is true that despite our best efforts, we never quite live up to other people's expectations (or vice versa) because of negative emotions and character defects like anger, pride, envy, bitterness, unforgiveness, and others. And what is the outcome of all this? As we can see, the world today is rife with divorce (from marriages), broken families, shattered friendships, communication gaps, and connection chasms.

Consider a situation in which you and your spouse believe that your marriage is perfect and that you cannot imagine ever parting ways. The inevitable separation will occur, though, when fate intervenes and unavoidable death occurs. Then you'll realize that some of the people you trusted to remain by your side till the end have also left you. Our human connections are only good while we are here on this planet; they don't even reach to the heavens above. Indeed, there is no absolute surety in our closest relationships, only uncertainties and goodbyes.

We've all wished for that kind of "Ruth" that provides companionship against all odds. But in a world of imperfections, it is impossible to find one. However, did you know that each of us already has a "Ruth" in our lives in the form of Christ? Are we aware of Christ's consoling presence in us when we are experiencing brokenness, when we are a mess and in disarray, when everyone hates us, and when we are deserted and alone? Some people, whose trust is in people rather than in God, find this truth unbelievable.

Jesus renounced His throne as King of Heaven. He dwelt among us with a mission to save mankind, giving up everything He possessed—His life, dominion, and power. Just as Ruth declined to go back to her native land because she did not want to leave her mother-in-law, neither did Jesus abandon or forsake us. Jesus didn't cut corners in the course of His sacrificial love; He gave it all of Himself right up until the moment of His last breath. While He was hung on the cross, blood gushing over every inch of His body from head to toe, yet His mind was still on us, thinking of our well-being.

Ruth made a commitment to not forsake her mother-in-law. But doesn't the Bible also state that God will "never" desert us, even if our parents or anyone else do? God won't ever do that. Think about how God assured us of His word-signifying faithfulness by using the strong word NEVER in His vow. When God promises that He will stand by us, He means it; hence, expect that under all circumstances, without conditions or limitations, God is with us, in us, keeping us company. Even better, God's promises do not only last for this lifetime but unto eternity.

So, do you wish to have someone like Ruth? 

If you have Jesus in your life, you are better off. 

If Jesus is all you have, then you've got more than enough!❤