A Different Approach to Evangelism

This week we’re going to do some reflection on how Naomi’s words and actions led Ruth to put her faith in Yahweh. Traditionally this has been called ‘evangelism’ but that term has been sullied a bit by those who’ve used it to turn people into projects and have tried to ‘sell’ Jesus to others. So we won’t be using that word. But we will be looking at how an authentic faith in an inherently welcoming invitation to others to join in the journey of follow Jesus. And it looks a lot different than traditional ‘evangelism.’

The backdrop of our devotions this week is that Ruth speaks this incredible line to Naomi: Your people will be my people and your God my God. - Ruth 1:16. Essentially, it’s the moment of conversion, when she commits herself to following Yahweh, even at great personal cost.

So what was it about Naomi’s words and deeds that led Ruth to this key turning point in her life? The answer my surprise you.

Perhaps the biggest thing is that Naomi was open and authentic about her grief and about her spiritual disappointments (NOTE: That is not the usual formula for ‘evangelism’). In the opening paragraph of the book of Ruth it says this: Naomi was left without her two sons and her husband. - Ruth 1:5. And the rest of the book does nothing to downplay Naomi’s sorrow. Over and over it comes up. She talks about it plenty, and she even renames herself ‘bitter’ at one point. This is no triumphant believer - this is a grieving widow, a hungry immigrant, and a bereaved mother.

There’s something about grief that creates safe space for others to go on their spiritual journeys near us. When we embrace the pain of our lives, they can too. And facing pain and loss is always an open door to the spiritual journey.

And beyond that, Naomi is not afraid to show her disappointment and doubt in Yahweh. At one point she says to Ruth, The Lord’s hand has turned against me! - Ruth 1:13. And she blames God elsewhere for treating her poorly. But this kind of spiritual vulnerability, like other kinds of grief, shows that we have no hidden agenda. Instead it quietly invites others to share their journeys as well.

Are there ways you’ve been tempted to ‘make God look good’ to others? That’s not Naomi’s approach. Are there ways you’ve tried to ‘have it all together’ to prove that your God is good? Again, that is not Naomi’s approach. Perhaps connecting more deeply with your grief and disappointment is the way forward to being a more authentic and winsome person to those around you who are considering going on the spiritual journey.

Pray about these things today.