Ruth, a Moabite widow, goes to glean in the fields of Boaz, a relative of her deceased father-in-law, Elimelech by the complete providence of God. Boaz, a virtuous and kind man, notices Ruth's hard work and learns of her loyalty to her mother-in-law, Naomi. He ensures Ruth's protection and instructs his workers to be kind to her, allowing her to gather grain more easily. Boaz is the instrument of God's grace, even feeding her bread and letting her dip it in his vinegar, like an image of Christ. Ruth returns home with an abundance of grain and shares her experience with Naomi, who recognizes Boaz as the kinsman redeemer for their family. Out of all the fields and Bethlehemites Ruth could have gone to, God led her to him. Naomi has a change of heart and leaves her bitterness, seeing that God has indeed NOT withheld His blessing and kindness toward their family. Naomi encourages Ruth to continue gleaning in Boaz's fields, which she does throughout the barley and wheat harvests. The best parts of Ruth and Boaz are images of the ultimate Redeemer; Jesus Christ. |
