Redeemer Church of Waterford

The bitterness and emptiness which closed chapter one has now given way to sweetness and fullness through the continual kindness of Boaz - a close kinsman of Elimelech - expressed in his superabundant provision and care for Ruth. "The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end."

Boaz is a worthy man, a near relative of Ruth's father-in-law, and therefore qualified under the Old Testament law to rescue this stranger from the covenant through covenant love - and in doing so, Boaz points to a greater Redeemer to come, who will rescue us.

In response to the provision and protection of Boaz, Ruth questions why she - a stranger to the covenants of Israel - should find grace in the eyes of Boaz. This is the question every redeemed sinner must ask of our covenant keeping God.

The Book of Ruth opens with three funerals, leaving three widows bereft of their husbands. In this story, God speaks to the wounded hearts of those who have been separated by death from the love of their life.

The vulnerability of Ruth displays itself in her bold yet humble persistence when she happens upon the field of Boaz, her near kinsman, who lavishes her with unexpected and undeserved provision and protection.