Matthew 1:5; Ruth 1:1-18; Ruth 4:13-22 Of all the

individuals one might envision to be logically included in the

ancestral line of Jesus, Ruth would most assuredly be left out. Her

background, reputation, and life experiences would surely eliminate

her name from a list associated with the Name above all names. Yet,

Matthew's genealogy includes her. Ruth exemplifies the wonder of

God's grace for us all. No matter who you are, no matter what you

have done, no matter where you have been... the grace of God

invites you into the family of God.