Sermon Notes + 12.1.2024
SERMON NOTES
The Advent of Hope: The Root of Jesse
Ruth 1:1-6 and 4:13-17, and Isaiah 11:1-9
Dr. Tamene Menna, Executive Pastor
Overview: Have you ever found yourself in a difficult situation and wondered if God would come to your rescue and restore your situation? Well, I did when my family and I experienced a series of four crises in the span of six years that overwhelmed us and significantly changed the trajectory of our lives. We all go through difficult times, whether they are as extreme as our family’s situation or even more severe. The truth is that many of us experience moments in our lives when we feel we are at the end of our rope.
On a personal level, for some of us, this might be the loss of a loved one, a failed relationship, or even a dream that didn’t come to fruition. For others, it could be a job loss and the resulting financial pressure, isolation, and hopelessness. Or, for some of us, it could be the despair that comes with physical limitations or illnesses, a terminal diagnosis, depression, divorce, or caring for a disabled family member. Perhaps you may be struggling to see the purpose behind your pain, and as you do, you feel bitterness slowly creeping in, and you question why God would allow you to suffer so deeply. And not to forget the larger world around us—the chaotic political landscape, devastating natural disasters, and ongoing conflicts only amplify our feelings of despair, uncertainty, and fear.
That introduction brings three questions to my mind:
1. What do we need to know when life doesn’t turn out as we planned or expected, especially when our circumstances appear overwhelmingly bleak?
2. What hope do we have that God will set things right in our lives and in the world?
3. What assurance can we find regarding what God will do in the future to bring about healing and restoration?
These are the questions we want to engage with this morning, and we’re going to do so by looking at a story and a prophecy that took place during two difficult times in Israel’s history. Through these accounts, we’re going to be reminded of the depth of God’s faithfulness and the promise of hope even in the midst of difficult circumstances.
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QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION & DISCOVERY
1. Read Ruth 1:1-6; 1:20-21. Imagine the weight of Naomi’s grief in a culture where inheritance and lineage were so critical. In Ruth 1:20, she says, “Call me Mara, for the Almighty has made my life very bitter.” Think of a time when you felt like Naomi—when circumstances brought heartache or left you feeling empty. How did that situation impact your relationship with God and others?
2. Read Isaiah 53:1-12. The first coming of Christ is characterized by the profound mystery of divine suffering. Jesus entered into a broken world and fully experienced human pain, sorrow, heartache, and suffering. Isaiah 53:3 describes the Messiah as “a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief.” Read Hebrews 4:15-16. How does knowing that Jesus suffered and empathizes with our pain change your perspective on your own struggles?
3. Read Ruth, chapters 2-4. The concept of God’s providence runs throughout Naomi’s story. It’s God who orchestrates the events that lead Ruth to Boaz, a kinsman-redeemer who ultimately restores Naomi’s family line as Ruth gives birth to Obed. We’ve all experienced moments when we look back and see how perfectly timed events led us to where we are today. How have you seen God’s hand at work in your life recently? Take time to reflect on your experiences and be intentional in thanking Him.
4. Read Isaiah 11:1-9 and Revelation 21:4. Share with your group Scriptures that remind you of God’s promises, especially in seasons of emptiness.
For Further Reading: Carson, D.A. How Long, O Lord? Reflections on Suffering and Evil. Baker Academic, 2006. 2nd Edition