As we continue our study in Ruth during this Shavout season, the theme of redemption is prevalent. We read that Boaz became Naomi and Ruth’s “kinsman redeemer”, or “goel” – from the Hebrew, “lig’ol”, to redeem, receive or buy back. In the Torah, a provision had been made for the poor person who was forced to sell part of his property or even himself (into slavery).
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As Israel celebrates Yom Ha’atzmaut – Independence day – Israelis are often reminded of the price that was paid for freedom. But today, in that spirit, I want to recall a time when a heavy price was paid for a translation of our Bible.
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As we approach the end of the age we are overwhelmed with the amount of evidence of the reliability and accuracy of the Bible. Last week, more Dead Sea scrolls were discovered and the announcement of more caves to excavate was released. But unless you understand the history of the scrolls you may not realize the significance of what is taking place.
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Throughout California and Oregon forest fires are burning out of control in this brutal August heat. To give you some perspective, the U.S. Forest service is spending $100 million a week to fight the fires!
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Two Fridays ago, my family was tragically stunned when my younger brother, Gary, was found dead at his condominium in Baltimore County. He apparently died suddenly of a heart attack at the age of 46. Last Thursday was his funeral at which I gave the eulogy. In my own state of shock I was struck by the reality which I shared with those present, ‘Death, especially when sudden and unexpected, forces disruption upon us, rudely interrupts our carefully laid out plans, and faces us with its irrevocable power.’
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I’ve been reading about thanksgiving, and have recently come across some challenging examples of this from other cultures, that I want to share.
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Corrie Ten Boom tells this story in her book, Each New Day. “When I saw Sadhu Sundar Singh in Europe, he had completed a tour around the world. People asked him, Doesn’t it do harm, you’re getting so much honor?” The Sadhu’s answer was: “No. The donkey went into Jerusalem, and they put garments on the ground before him. He was not proud. He knew it was not done to honor him, but for Jesus, who was sitting on his back. When people honor me, I know it is not me, but the Lord, who does the job.”
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