A family of saints and heroes

Did it start with Naomi's kindness? One thing led to another, and her daughter-in-law Ruth came back to Judea with her. Ruth's heartfelt bonds and fierce loyalty are still much quoted at weddings: "Where you go I will go, where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God." Ruth's grandson David started as a shepherd, and even as a shepherd gained a reputation as a skilled musician. When David the shepherd became King David, he was still famous as a wordsmith, a songwriter, a musician -- one who loved God, and a man of courage. As so often happens with success in this world, King David's reign was tarnished by scandal. The more lasting legacy has stayed with us through the ages in his devotion to God in psalms, including songs of heartfelt repentance after his scandal. His son Solomon followed David on the throne, and in some ways followed David in scandal. But his pursuit of wisdom has been his most honored legacy. 

The devotion to God showed up in different ways: wisdom, music, personal loyalty, a love that was strong enough to anchor a home, acts of kindness that brought a young widow to a new land. A love of God can pass along from generation to generation and leave a bright trail that still shows from a great distance in time. 

Sometimes it happens that a saint or hero of faith is alone in his faith, or very nearly so. Abraham comes to mind. And great things can come of one person of faith. But when two or three gather together? The shockwaves can last for generations, and the light can linger for thousands of years. 

Lord, may those who love you gather together and be encouraged by each others' devotion to you. When we gather together in your name, be with us, and may your light shine.