THE GIRL WHOSE LOVE WAS TRUE.

The story of Ruth is one which I love,

Because of the message it tells,

Of a young maiden, so sweet and so fair,

But one on whom sad troubles fell.

She had married the son of Elimelech old,

But very soon Ruth’s husband died.

And she and Naomi were left all alone,

With Orpah a widow besides.

Naomi had planned to return to the land

From which she had formerly come.

She had heard that in Bethlehem’s own barley fields

There was plenty of grain to be won.

She persuaded the two girls to stay in Moab

But Orpah and Ruth decided to go

Back to the land that Naomi loved,

How could Naomi say ‘No’.

They journeyed together for part of the way,

But Naomi said, ‘Please girls turn back’,

And find yourselves husbands and fine new homes,

Then food you will never lack.

Orpah was glad to take Naomi’s advice,

And said ‘Goodbye’ with a kiss,

But with tears in her eyes Ruth pleaded to go on,

So Naomi good care would not miss.

Said Ruth, ‘I’ll not leave you, Mother of mine,

And wherever you go I will go.

Wherever you live I shall stay by your side,

And worship the God we love so.

Together they journeyed over pathways quite rough,

With hot noon-day sun beating down

Together they walked and encouraged and prayed,

Until they reached Bethlehem’s town.

The harvest of barley had newly commenced,

And Ruth went to work before long.

She gleaned in the field of the owner, Boaz,

And quietly praised God with a song.

She gathered the barley and took enough home

So Naomi had plenty to eat.

And Boaz gave many more handfuls to Ruth

When this lovely girl he did meet.

Boaz soon realised he loved beautiful Ruth

And he wished to have her as his wife.

Ruth gladly consented, for she was so glad

To love him, and serve him for life.

Together they lived, and before very long

A beautiful baby boy came,

To bring joy and gladness to Boaz’ home,

And they gave him Obed for his name.

Naomi was cared for by Ruth and Boaz,

And God blessed the family line

For David, their grandson, became a great king,

And ruled on the throne a long time.

But wonder of wonders, we read in God’s Word,

That from David’s own family line

Came Jesus, the One who was King of Kings,

And my Saviour He is for all time.

Do read Gwenda’s poem to your children or grandchildren