Advent: December 12

Advent

Dec 12

Written By Dr. Mark Livingston

Theme:

Ruth

Symbol:

Wheat

Read

Ruth 1-4 (Matthew 1:1-6)

Ask:

What happened to Ruth and Naomi at the beginning of the story? (Their husbands died). How is Ruth’s response to Naomi’s request in 1:16-17 remarkable? (She shows incredible loyalty)
How was God working behind the scenes in this story? How was God faithful to both Ruth and Naomi? (He provided for their needs)
Who is Boaz? (a kinsman redeemer) How is Boaz a picture of Jesus? (He redeems Ruth and takes care of her). Why is Ruth’s story important for Jesus’ coming? Jesus is descended from Ruth (4:18-22) (Matt. 1:1-6).

Sing:

O Little Town of Bethlehem

Pray:

Sovereign God, we praise You for working behind the scenes in our lives, even when we are unaware. Help us to trust that You are faithful. Make us loyal like Ruth and kind like Boaz. May people recognize God’s faithfulness and provision in our lives. Thank You, Jesus, for being the true and better Boaz who redeems us from our sin. Amen.

Dr. Mark Livingston

Mark has been the Lead Pastor of Broadway since July 2020. He is married to Amanda, and they have four children: Lacy, Micah, Landon, and Savannah. He was licensed to the ministry in 1998 and ordained in 2004. He obtained a Master of Divinity from Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary and a Doctor of Ministry degree from Covenant Theological Seminary.