The scheme for May – June can be found here

Ruth 1-2; Mark 13; Psalm 13-14

Today we begin the beautiful story of Ruth. Its roots are lost in the mists of time, but it would seem reasonable to presume that it is written with the story of David in view. This beautiful tale is the preface to the tale of the one whose story dominates the Old Testament in so many ways, the story of the one whose life will lead to a hope realised in Christ, The Messiah.

It is a wonderful multi layered tale which speaks across the purity narrative of much of the Old Testament, the narrative which Jesus so clearly undoes in dining with those whom the ‘pure’ will not associate.

Because we are so taken in with this powerful love story, we miss the sub-text. Deep in the Old Testament is laid a subversive tale. David’s line includes a Moabitess. The one who comes ‘to the lost sheep of Israel’ is reminded of his roots – even the dogs get to eat the crumbs . . .