Narrative Lectionary Key Verse for Today
“No sooner had Boaz gone up to the gate and sat down there than the next-of-kin, of whom Boaz had spoken, came passing by.”
NL Daily Devotion for Monday, June 22, 2026
by R. M. Fergus, Clergy Stuff
Again, not a big town, Bethlehem. Boaz doesn’t have to seek out this relative who has first dibs on Elimelech’s land (and daughter-in-law). Boaz just goes and hangs out in the place men meet to do business, and along comes this other fellow. And we know the guy’s not going to put up a fuss because the story doesn’t even bother to name him. He’s just another literary device, I think. He creates some tension in that he’s a barrier between Ruth and Boaz getting together, especially as he quickly accepts the opportunity to redeem Elimelech’s land as offered. But he also creates an opportunity to demonstrate once again how God’s hand is in this upcoming union, by clearing away all the obstacles to a marriage that will result in the future birth of Israel’s most beloved king, David, as we shall see tomorrow…
When have seeming obstacles strengthened my resolve?
