April 6 - Coincidence?

 Read today’s texts first: Ruth 3,4; Psalms 64,65; 2 Corinthians 6

MAXIMize YOUR DAY
 Coincidence is the handiwork of God!

We often hear how character emerges in times of difficulty. While Jesus was enduring the most excruciating pain imaginable, He took time to notice and care for others: first the women who were weeping for Him (weep not, oh daughters of Jerusalem), then His own mother (transferring her care to John), then those who were crucifying Him (Father, forgive them), and finally the repentant criminal being crucified beside Him (today you will be with me in Paradise).  As we are learning from the tender story of Ruth, that’s the character of God - always noticing and caring for those He loves.

Ruth was poor, a widow, a woman, and a foreigner - all good reasons why she should remain unnoticed. But she pursued the God of Israel (read yesterday’s entry), and God began to pursue her, sovereignly guiding her steps from one amazing coincidence to another.

First, she randomly chose the field of Boaz to glean grain. Boaz just so happened to notice her and provide extra for her to glean. Coincidentally, Boaz was related to Naomi and could qualify as Ruth’s Kinsman Redeemer (a picture of Jesus, who redeemed His bride, the Church). Naomi’s closer relative had no interest in welcoming Ruth into his family, leaving the door open for Boaz. They married and had a son, Obed, who, wonder of wonders, became the grandfather of King David, and part of the royal line of the Messiah, our Redeemer! Like I said, coincidence is the handiwork of God.

“Lord, You’ve also noticed me. A lifetime of coincidences has convinced me that You have been guiding my life from day one and I trust You will do the same for the rest of my life!”