We’re at a place in Ruth that we could go in numerous directions. We could simply discuss what happens in the account. We could talk about how the story of Ruth and Boaz is a type and shadow of Christ and the church; that Christ is our kinsman redeemer. We could talk about customs and laws in the Old Testament. Whether Ruth or another book in the Bible there is so much there. We can go as deep as we want because there is always more to learn.
For a brief overview lets see what happens in chapter 2 and 3. Ruth goes to glean corn from a field that belongs to Boaz. If you didn’t know, Boaz is a relative of Elimelech, Naomi’s husband. Ruth goes to work in the field so Naomi doesn’t have to. Boaz takes notice of Ruth pretty quickly and gives her more than is required. Ruth comes home with more than anticipated and Naomi questions how this has happened. Naomi has always wanted the best for Ruth so as she explains what has happened Naomi realizes that this could be the moment they’ve waited for. Naomi devises a plan for Boaz to marry Ruth. Boaz lets Ruth know that there is a kinsman or a relative closer than he. He’ll have to talk to the other relative and if he will not marry her than Boaz will. Obviously, you’ll want to go read the actual account, but that’s a quick run down.
Tarry this night, and it shall be in the morning, that if he will perform unto thee the part of a kinsman, well; let him do the kinsman’s part:
but if he will not do the part of a kinsman to thee, then will I do the part of a kinsman to thee, as the Lord liveth: lie down until the morning. Ruth 3:13
Isn’t that just the most romantic thing you’ve ever heard?!? If he won’t marry you then I will. In our Hallmark movie world that doesn’t sound all that sweet, it actually sounds like the exact opposite of love. If we’re honest though we know that the type of love that the world talks about is a mere fleeting feeling. I’m not saying love isn’t real. What I am saying is that in today’s society love comes and goes very quickly. We aren’t talking about today’s society though. We’re talking about a much different time. We are talking about a time that doing what was right was more important than doing what felt good. We’re talking about when taking responsibility was a sign of love. What Boaz is offering is so much more than a feeling that will leave when times get hard. I recently told someone that you choose who you love. You make a decision to love someone even on the hard days, in the moments that the person is unloveable, you make a choice. Boaz made a choice to do what was right. No, there weren’t soft violins playing in the background, there were no fireworks, and the world didn’t stand still for them. Those are all ideas that sound warm and fuzzy but aren’t very realistic. What Boaz offered to Ruth is the same that Jesus offers to us. He offers us Godly love, He offers protection, stability, comfort, and most importantly a future with Him.