God's Math

Background Scripture: Ruth 1 & 2

Math and I do not get along. Ninth grade algebra did us in. There was a brief reunion in tenth grade geometry, but I was haunted by the painful breakup through college. God’s math is another thing altogether. I heart God’s math.

Three verses into Chapter 1 of the book of Ruth are all it takes for the story to turn very tragic- so much loss, alienation, brokenness and sadness. As Naomi and Ruth leave Moab, their lives are a mess. It appears that things will only be getting worse. Do Naomi and Ruth have anything going for them as they travel on the road to Bethlehem? Only two things: each other and the most profoundly powerful force in the universe. This is God’s math in action.

Two broken lives + God’s plan = ?

God has given these women to each other. Broken as they both are, it may not seem like much of a gift. But, broken as they are, they are still image bearers and still “ezers.” God has chosen these women to help fulfill His purposes of salvation for the entire human race. Broken, but faithful, these women will change the image of the little town of Bethlehem for all eternity. Ruth and Naomi are related to King David and in the ancestral line of Jesus. Their story is heartbreaking, but it is also triumphant. They matter, and they have significance in God’s math. That’s how my Lord rolls.

Two broken lives + God’s plan = Redemption

This is the characteristic that I love most about my God. He takes lives that are broken, hopeless and empty and uses them to show the world His great love and His great power. I can dig in deep to stories such as these to find satisfaction and peace. I am reassured through Naomi and Ruth that I can give Him myself and my trust. God hearts Naomi, Ruth, and us (broken lives and all).

-Jean Sanner