From Obed to Jesse

God’s plan surpasses human expectations by far. This is particularly evident when reading the Book of Ruth. Now the Book of Ruth concludes with a genealogy. Let’s take a look at its significance. As we learned last time, the child born to Ruth was named Obed, which means “servant.” This was a nickname given by the neighbor women, and it became the child’s actual name. True to his name, Obed became a servant in God’s plan and played a significant role in the redemption of humanity. His parents, guided by faith, sensed that the nickname given to their child carried prophetic meaning. Obed became the father of Jesse, and from Jesse, David was born. Let’s also hope that God will accomplish great works through our children.

The genealogy of David the son of Jesse

Let’s read the genealogy in chapter 1 of the Gospel of Matthew. When you read it after reading the Book of Ruth, you will have deeper understanding of its meaning. Let’s review the events recorded in the Old Testament. Judah, through Tamar the wife of his dead son, gained Perez and Zerah. The lineage after Perez continues with Hezron, Ram, Amminadab, Nahshon, Salmon, Boaz, Obed, Jesse, and finally David, born as the eighth son of Jesse. Bethlehem was a small town. However, with the birth of David, it came to be known as the “City of David.” Bethlehem became a glorious town remembered by people all over the world. God elevated the lowly (Ruth) and a small town (Bethlehem) to great heights. As the virgin Mary sings, “He has done mighty deeds with His arm; He has scattered those who were proud in the thoughts of their heart. He has brought down rulers from their thrones, and has exalted those who were humble. He has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty-handed” (Luke 1:51-53), this is indeed true. Let’s be thankful that the Lord has amazing plans even for us, the lowly.