Blogging toward Sunday

On our journey toward Advent, the sermon series, "What to Expect When You're Expecting," is linked to a portion of the genealogy of Jesus found in Matthew 1:1-6. Take time to read this passage. Then consider who makes the list? Would you expect to find all these people on the roll call of Jesus' family? Likely, you will find a few names that are a bit unexpected. For example, who would imagine that Ruth and Rahab would be named, especially since they were both foreigners. Yet by God's grace they, too, are part of the family of God.

Image via Wikimedia Commons

Before Sunday, take time to read Ruth 1:22-2:12 and consider the following:

1. To what city does Naomi and Ruth travel? How does this relate to the Nativity?
2. Who is Boaz?
3. What sort of person does Boaz seem to be?
4. How concerned is Boaz about Ruth being a foreigner?

Now, let's turn our attention to Rahab.

Via Wikimedia Commons

You may read about her in Joshua 2:15-24, (to get a fuller picture of the events, you may wish to read the entire chapter), then reflect on the following:

1. What do you already know about Rahab?
2. What is her profession?
3. Although Scripture doesn't tell us, have you ever wondered why a woman might have "chosen" such a career in ancient biblical times?
4. What does Rahab do for the spies sent by Joshua? 

As always, I look forward to seeing you in worship on Sunday. I pray that you are having a blessed Advent.

Shalom,
Glenda