Why Ruth?
Embracing the Story of Ruth
The story of Ruth is a poignant example of faith, loyalty, and the breaking down of ethnic barriers. Ruth, a Moabite, embodies the willingness to embrace a new identity within the people of God, demonstrating that faithfulness and commitment transcend ethnic and national boundaries. We look to Ruth’s story as a powerful model for community-building — one that values the contributions and presence of individuals from diverse backgrounds. This narrative challenges us to consider how we might embody hesed in our own communities, extending kindness and solidarity beyond traditional boundaries.
Inclusivity and Community
The notion of inclusivity mirrors the biblical invitation to “glean spiritual blessings” and share them within the community, reminiscent of Boaz’s fields where Ruth was welcomed to glean. It’s a metaphorical call to ensure that everyone has access to spiritual nourishment, mirroring the inclusivity of God’s kingdom. However, the challenge lies in actively maintaining this inclusivity while nurturing a sense of belonging and identity among diverse groups. How do you balance the preservation of specific cultural and traditional values with the openness to embrace all? This balance is crucial in preventing the community from becoming insular while also offering a space where cultural heritage is celebrated and integrated into the broader tapestry of faith.
Spiritual Nourishment
The metaphor of eating spiritual food and drinking water that quenches thirst eternally draws directly from Jesus’ discourse in the Gospel of John. It emphasizes the depth and sustainability of spiritual nourishment found in Christ, contrasted with the temporary satisfaction of worldly pursuits. This promise of everlasting fulfillment is central to the Christian faith and serves as a compelling invitation to those seeking meaning and purpose beyond the material. It’s a call to a deeper engagement with the spiritual realities that sustain us.
The Gospel and the Culture of the Ancient Near East
Understanding the role of food and hospitality in the ancient Near East culture provides a deeper insight into the biblical narratives and the Gospel itself. In these cultures, sharing a meal was not just a social convention; it was a sacred act that established and reinforced relationships, offered protection, and signified covenant. By positioning food and hospitality at the heart of our ministry, Campus Dei not only adheres to this ancient tradition but also illustrates the Gospel message — one of inclusion, reconciliation, and abundant provision.
Theological Implications of Hesed Love
The story of Ruth and Boaz, and the broader biblical witness, portrays God’s hesed love as exceeding human expectations. It’s a love that forgives, redeems, and adopts us into God’s family. This divine attribute of generosity and unwavering kindness is mirrored in Jesus Christ’s life, death, and resurrection, offering salvation and abundant life to all humanity.
In the Spirit of 인심
In Campus Dei, the integration of food and hospitality as expressions of hesed love not only pays homage to Korean cultural practices but also deeply resonates with biblical principles of community, generosity, and love. This approach serves as a vivid illustration of the Gospel’s power to transcend cultural barriers, uniting people in a shared experience of God’s love and provision. By following the example of Boaz and embodying the spirit of 인심, the ministry stands as a testament to the transformative power of God’s love, inviting all to partake in the feast of God’s kingdom where everyone is welcome, valued, and nourished.