Dear Woodland Hills Family,
In the opening two verses of the book of Ruth we read that Elimelech and Naomi were Ephrathites of Bethlehem in Judah. Why did the writer tell us this and what is an Ephrathite?Before it was called Bethlehem it was the ancient city of Ephrath. The Ephrathites, then, were the people of that ancient and noble lineage. To be born an Ephrathite meant being one of the more well-to-do land owners and prominent citizens. They were probably the “old money” of the region, with connections, influence, and means.
Elimelech and Naomi, as Ephrathites, were likely part of a distinguished family. We may assume they were accustomed not only to the benefits of personal wealth, but also to its accompanying privilege and respect.
But then famine struck. And no doubt their net worth took a hit. As did the privilege and respect they had enjoyed.
Have you ever noticed this about people who are accustomed to the benefits and privilege of wealth? They do not relinquish them readily.
Fear of the loss of wealth, and with it the imagined loss of influence and respect in the community may have been a powerful motivating force behind Elimelech’s decision to sojourn in Moab: “Honey, this famine is ruining us! We’d better take what we have and get on over to Moab… while we still have something left to take! After we rebuild our assets we’ll come back.”
But look what it cost him! And his family. As one person said: We make our decisions and then our decisions turn around and make us.*
Lord, I recognize that I, too, am in danger of asset attachment. Please strengthen my resolve to use the influence and possessions You’ve entrusted to me solely for Your purposes. And if I falter in this, I reaffirm my request that You remove whatever proves to be unhealthy to the condition of my soul.
Blessings,