The answer is: Ruth

Ruth 1:16

The heartfelt declaration "thy God shall be my God" spoken by Ruth is a powerful moment of commitment and loyalty. Here, Ruth is making a bold decision to follow her mother-in-law, Naomi, back to Bethlehem after the loss of their husbands. This passage is chock-full of emotions, emphasizing the deep bonds of friendship and family. It’s about conversions, not just from one religion to another, but from one culture to another, where Ruth, a Moabite, embraces the God of Israel.

What’s fascinating is that this moment illustrates early principles of inclusivity often seen in the Hebrew Bible. Ruth is not merely a passive character; she asserts her choice. You can think of her as a forerunner to the many figures in Scripture who show unwavering courage to pursue something greater than themselves. It’s a theme echoed throughout the Bible where outsiders often play pivotal roles—in many ways, offering hope, such as Rahab’s protection of Israelite spies in Jericho.

The Book of Ruth itself is a remarkable love story that emphasizes the roles of women in Biblical history. Additionally, Ruth's loyalty and her determination convey not only faith but the graciousness of God’s inclusive love for all who seek refuge and hope, affirming that these principles resonate through the ages. Ruth is not just gaining a new home; she is becoming part of a bigger family, which ultimately leads her to be an ancestor of David and, notably, a part of the lineage of Jesus, enriching her legacy even further.