“As the Father has loved Me, so have I loved you. Abide in My love.” John 15:9
The story of Ruth and Boaz is considered by many to be the Bible’s classic love story between a woman and a man. It is filled with memorable moments of tragic loss, acts of great kindness, redemption, and joyful restoration. We see God’s fingerprints of love and goodness all over this small four-chapter book, and our hearts applaud the noble Boaz as we see in him the foreshadowing of our own desperately needed Kinsman Redeemer, Jesus Christ.
Even those less acquainted with Scripture will likely recognize the verses from the book of Ruth that are frequently quoted at weddings (including mine), “Where you go, I will go, and where you stay, I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Where you die, I will die, and there I will be buried. May the Lord deal with me, be it ever so severely, if even death separates you and me.” (Ruth 1:16-17) Beautiful words of commitment spoken by Ruth to her mother-in-law, Naomi, and totally appropriate vows of love between a husband and wife.
But there are two lesser-known verses that I recently looked at more closely. It’s easy to overlook the beauty of these two verses because they are sandwiched between two more dramatic events:
- First, Ruth’s surprise appearance on the threshing room floor and her request that Boaz accept the role of kinsman redeemer (a marriage proposal), and
- Second, Boaz’ decisive action at the city gates to get the relative first-in-line for the kinsman redeemer position to relinquish his rights so that Boaz could marry Ruth.
Nestled between these events, we read:
“So she lay at his feet until the morning, but arose before one could recognize another. And he said, ‘Let it not be known that the woman came to the threshing floor.’ And he said, ‘Bring the garment you are wearing and hold it out.’ So she held it, and he measured out six measures of barley and put it on her. Then she went into the city.” (Ruth 3:14-15)
Here’s the picture:
Ruth lay silently at his feet; there would be no sleep for her in the remaining dark hours. The nervous tension leading up to the night-veiled conversation with Boaz had passed. No more rehearsing the words given to her by Naomi while wondering how Boaz would respond. Now her mind was abuzz with relief, nervous energy, and eager anticipation to see what the day would bring.
Surprised and honored by Ruth’s humble request, Boaz had gladly accepted the role of kinsman redeemer IF the relative closer to Naomi agreed to relinquish the role.
The dim light of early dawn began to break through the night sky and Ruth rose quickly and quietly to leave.
Boaz, who was lying awake, whispered a caution, “don’t let anyone see you slip out.” Thinking quickly, he told Ruth to spread her garment – most likely a shawl – so that he could send her away with a gift of barley.
Let’s look at this more closely.
“Lay at his feet” In obeying Naomi’s instructions, Ruth had humbled herself by approaching Boaz as she did on the threshing floor. Laying at his feet was further demonstration of a humble and submissive spirit. In this position, Ruth acknowledged the helplessness of her situation and entrusted her future and well-being to Boaz’ protective care.
Let it not be known” – Boaz wanted to protect Ruth’s virtuous reputation and make certain his own upright character remained untarnished; he wanted no suspicions surrounding their innocent encounter. Any rumor of scandal or accusation of impropriety would make it difficult for him to convince the relative next in line as kinsman redeemer to relinquish that right.
And, Boaz knew his behavior and reputation would be a reflection on God
“Six measures of barley” Not the most romantic gift that a man can give a woman, but it was what Boaz had to give at that moment. The modest offering of barley carried great significance:
- The unexpected gift demonstrated Boaz’ concern for the well-being of both Ruth and Naomi; it ensured that Ruth and Naomi would not go hungry – they would have the bread necessary to sustain them – while waiting for resolution.
- The gift signaled Boaz’ respect for Naomi, and it sent Ruth home with a message acknowledging his willingness to accept the role of kinsman redeemer and take Ruth as his wife.
Ruth expected to slip out of the threshing room before anyone, including Boaz, was awake. She hadn’t asked for anything in the short term…she had already made the big, life-altering request and she knew that once Boaz was awake, he would be focused on that. She had no expectation of his attention for her return trip home. But Boaz was already awake, waiting to offer his protection and his provision.
In these two verses we see Boaz take on the role of the kinsman redeemer – even though the title is not yet his. In his actions, we see how our Savior – our Kinsman Redeemer – protects and provides for us when we submit ourselves to His love and care – even when we are not expecting His watch care or attention.
Lay at his feet. What an amazing picture of the way that our Lord and Savior lovingly watches over us when we place ourselves at His feet – when we humble ourselves and recognize our inability to take care of everything ourselves – when we acknowledge that on our own, we cannot fix our own problems or mend broken relationships or resolve our messy situations.
“Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time He may exalt you.” 1 Peter 5:6
Let it not be known. Just as Boaz knew that his and Ruth’s reputations were precious and needed to be protected; we should be always mindful that our lives are a living testimony of what God has done for us and is doing in us; our lives – our behavior either glorifies God or dishonors Him.
“Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable…they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation.” 1 Peter 2:12
Six measures of barley. Boaz wanted the best for Ruth and Naomi, and it was his intent to speedily resolve the major Kinsman Redeemer matter, but he did not lose sight of their lesser needs for sustenance that day. God knows what we need and when we need it, He will provide in the way that best nurtures our body and our spirit. Never overlook the “small gifts” that God generously, abundantly provides each and every day.
“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with Whom there is no variation of shadow due to change.” James 1:17
“Therefore, do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ …your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” Matthew 6:31-33 ESV
Thank you, Father, that this love story is ours because in Your love and mercy, You provided your lost creation with the Kinsman Redeemer, Jesus Christ – Who brought redemption, restoration, relief, and refreshment for our souls.
May we be eternally grateful and ever aware of Your goodness in our lives.
Amen and Amen.