Pledge: Return to Bethlehem

Last week we left Ruth weeping and clinging to Naomi, who had encouraged her to go home. Ruth is entreated multiple times to go back to her nation and her gods, but Ruth will not comply. Her response clearly describes one who had converted to Judaism - she proclaims an oath of commitment to Naomi's family and faith. She even desires for Yahweh to kill her and worse, if she deserts Naomi. Naomi accepts Ruth's decision, taking her along, complains bitterly when she returns home to Bethlehem, and arrived right at the beginning of barley harvest - Yahweh is preparing to fulfill one of His great promises.