Today we start the story of Ruth, a brilliant example of faith and love for God. Despite all the tragedy in Ruth’s life, she turns her back on Moab and returns to Bethlehem with Naomi. In Bethlehem she had nothing except her mother-in-law and her faith in God, yet she was willing to trust and rely on God for her continued existence.
Jude’s epistle appeals to us to “contend for the faith”, to “build yourselves up in the most holy faith…keep yourselves in the love of God.” Ruth’s life really reflects this in her decision to leave her former life behind and pursue God, and so our life should also reflect our faith.
Jude also reminds us that our God is powerful and loving, “able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy”