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REFLECTION

The theme for our reflection is “Not impressed by riches” Not impressed by riches is when a person is not influenced by the affluence or wealth of others in his or her decision making. In other words, not being impressed by riches means that a person looks beyond riches when arriving at a decision. We shall reflect on the fact that we must not be impressed by what people have, but by who they are.

Beloved in the Lord, anyone at all can become rich; however, not everyone can be godly or live a life of integrity. We are being called upon not to be impressed by riches but to focus on enviable features such as the character or nature of the person in question. Boaz discovered that Ruth was not interested in wealth or riches, but in a man with a good heart. Therefore he said to Ruth, “The LORD bless you, my daughter,” he replied. “This kindness is greater than that which you showed earlier: You have not run after the younger men, whether rich or poor. 11 And now, my daughter, don’t be afraid. I will do for you all you ask. All the people of my town know that you are a woman of noble character. (Ruth 3:10-11) Beloved in the Lord, Ruth discovered that Boaz was God-fearing and a kind-hearted man beyond the fact that he was the guardian-redeemer of her late husband’s family( In the Jewish culture, a guardian-redeemer is a member of the family who was its benefactor in times of distress). It is important to note that there are men who are rich but are disrespectful and abusive to women. However, in Ruth chapter 2, we realised that Boaz treated Ruth who was a foreigner with kindness and respect. After their first encounter, Ruth said to Boaz, “May I continue to find favour in your eyes, my lord,” she said. “You have put me at ease by speaking kindly to your servant, though I do not have the standing of one of your servants.” 14 At mealtime, Boaz said to her, “Come over here. Have some bread and dip it in the wine vinegar.”

When she sat down with the harvesters, he offered her some roasted grain. She ate all she wanted and had some leftover. 15 As she got up to glean, Boaz gave orders to his men, “Let her gather among the sheaves and don’t reprimand her. 16 Even pull out some stalks for her from the bundles and leave them for her to pick up, and don’t rebuke her.” (Ruth 2:13-16) Ruth found in Boaz a good and caring husband, but not a rich man or a mere benefactor.

Today, we have some women who are married to rich men but are not happy in their marriages. Marrying a rich man does not guarantee peace of mind and joy in marriage, but marrying a noble and God-fearing man must be the first among the qualities every woman must look for in a prospective husband. Indeed, a God-fearing man would have no difficulty in show loving, respect and honour to his wife. Although Boaz was far older than Ruth, Ruth wanted a marriage where she would feel safe, loved and cared for. She needed a man she would love for who he is and not what he has. Sometimes the age difference may be wide, but it is insignificant if the love and affection are genuine. The key principles of Christian marriage are partner must have a strong relationship with God (faith) and have unconditional love and deep affection for each other. This love and affection must modelled on the perfect example of Jesus selflessness and sacrifice. When these principles form the foundation of the marriage, it will stand the test of time, whether in times of riches or need. Like Ruth, we are called upon to look beyond riches when looking for a spouse, for all that glitters is not gold.

In summary, we have learnt that in selecting a marriage partner, we must not be impressed or influenced by what people have, but by who they are. Shalom.

PRAYER

May the Holy Spirit grant us discernment to look beyond material possessions when settling on prospective spouses. We also pray for those who are married to love and cherish their partners and not become arrogant and abusive toward their partners because of earthly riches and pride. God be our helper. Amen.