She… went and gleaned in the field after the reapers, and she happened to come to the part of the field belonging to Boaz, who was of the clan of Elimelech. – Ruth 2:3
It seems that this all happened by chance. Ruth did not know the field belonged to an eligible member of her husband’s family. But we do!
Boaz is a marvelous example of a good employer. He takes an active interest in his employees. As a believing man, he prays for God’s blessing on them. And notice that his goodwill is returned. He says, “The LORD be with you,” and they answer, “The LORD bless you” (2:4).
Then, seeing Ruth, Boaz asks the young man in charge of the reapers, “Whose young woman is this?” (2:5). Ruth has caught Boaz’s attention. The servant tells him, “She is the Moabite who came back with Naomi. She asked to glean behind us, and she has been working all day.”
Boaz gives Ruth the warmest welcome, saying three things:
- “Stay here” (2:8). A less generous owner would have said, “You can glean here today. Go somewhere else tomorrow.” Not Boaz.
- “You will be safe here” (2:9). These fields could be dangerous places. But Ruth would be safe in the fields of Boaz.
- “You will find help here” (2:9). When she is thirsty, she can help herself to the water his young men have drawn.
Boaz welcomed Ruth and did more for her than the law required. In this he points us to the Lord Jesus Christ, who says, “Whoever comes to me I will never cast out” (John 6:37). If you will come to Him, He will welcome you. He will guard you. He will keep you.
Reflect on the ways you have experienced Jesus’ generous offer of welcome, safety, and provision.
