Devotion
Honor your mother and father. . . and mother-in-law
David Jacobs
My uncle was diagnosed with a very aggressive and deadly form of spinal cancer years ago. When he was first told about it, we were all hopeful that he could beat it. As time progressed, we soon realized that the disease was stronger than we feared. He attempted to protect his family from seeing him waste away in a way that I think anyone can understand: he tried to push them away, telling them he didn't want to see them anymore. Of course, we never left his side, and the last months of his life were some of the most valuable memories that I have of him, even in his weakened condition.
Ruth's mother-in-law, Naomi, has dealt with one tragedy after another. Her sons and husband have all died, leaving her a widow, with only two daughter-in-laws, Orpah and Ruth. The two girls come back to see how Naomi is doing, and Naomi, like my uncle, tries to push them away. Ruth will not listen to Naomi. She will not even let go. She knows that Naomi needs her now more than ever, and that they both need God more than before.
Prayer
Abba Father, I shall listen to your commandments. Remind me to honor my mother and father, and if I marry, my spouse's mother and father as well. Help me, O Lord, to heal those who are grieving, knowing when to be close to them and to give them space. Be ever-present in my life and theirs, O Lord, my strength and my redeemer. Amen.
Night Prayer
Consider the lilies how they grow: they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.
Inspiration
Lillies in a field seem unimportant compared to the turmoil and strife erupting in the world today, which makes Christ's statement ever more precious. God provides nourishment to the lilies and adorns them with beauty. They are as carefree in an open field as we are, resting in the arms of our Heavenly Father. He promises to love and protect us, shield us from evil, and bless us unconditionally. His promise brings us hope and encouragement as we walk along the road toward salvation.
Prayer
Dear Father, we know we are safe in Your arms as You nourish our souls and adorn us with unconditional love. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
