On a weekend off, there’s nothing better than a good book, and this weekend, I immersed myself in Redeeming Ruth by Meadow Rue Merrill (Hendrickson, 2017). As she says in her book trailer below, Redeeming Ruth is an adoption story. But more than that, this is the story of a marriage and a family, of following a dream and persevering through difficulties, about loving a little girl and getting your heart broken, about faith in a God who is bigger than our fears and the challenges we face.
From the opening chapter on “The Danger of Dreaming” to the Epilogue, this book is a page-turner as Meadow and her family meet and adopt Ruth, who had been abandoned soon after she was born in Uganda; as they learn to care for her special needs due to her cerebral palsy; and as they and their community are changed by this special child.
Here is an introduction to the book in the author’s book trailer:
Redeeming Ruth officially launches TODAY, and has already received some great reviews and endorsements, including this one from Joni Eareckson Tada (CEO of Joni and Friends International Disability Center):
Some stories warm your heart; others break it. Redeeming Ruth does both. She was the littlest, the last, and the least of all, but God used this exceptional child to change not only a family, but an entire community–and, Lord willing, you too. God said, ‘ A little child shall lead them,’ and I pray Ruth’s story will lead you into a closer, sweeter, and more intimate encounter with Jesus than you dreamed possible. I have the deepest admiration and respect for the Merrill family, and it’s with great joy I recommend this book to you!”
This is an inspiring story that includes a reader’s guide and full-colour photos of Ruth and the people and places in her life. Recommended for those interested in adoption, for parents dealing with grief, for anyone interested in a beautifully written true story of faith, hope, and love.
Reflection/Writing Prompt: The following is an excerpt from the Redeeming Ruth reader’s guide that includes Scripture, a brief quote, and questions for each chapter. This portion is from the guide for chapter 5, “A Jar of Faith”:
“And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him.” (Hebrews 11:6)
I was afraid to adopt Ruth without knowing how hard it would be. Yet Scripture says that faith–action before evidence–is essential to pleasing God.
- Look up the meaning of ‘faith’ in a dictionary, and then write your own description.
- In what area do you most struggle to have faith or confidence in God?“
Disclosure: I received a complementary copy of Redeeming Ruth from Hendrickson Publishers. The choice to review and the views expressed are my own.
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April Yamasaki 