Thursday, August 9

Ruth and Boaz Together at Last

Narrative Lectionary Daily Devotions written by Kace Leetch from Clergy Stuff.

Finally, we learn how Boaz would respond to Ruth's seduction. Clearly, he was not angry. In fact, his first words to Ruth were something like, "Oh, God bless you, child!" Immediately he recognized Ruth's heart. She wasn't after youth or riches. She made herself available to a man who was well-off but not filthy rich, much older than herself, but someone who could take care of Ruth and Naomi. It was a recognition that Ruth was continuing to look out for her family.

And there was some integrity to her choice, too. Because Boaz was a distant relative, he would have a legitimate claim to marrying her. There was one more, he knew, who had first claim on her. He would have to address that issue -- but not today. Tomorrow they would work out the details. Tonight, they would lie together and be happy in each other's arms. 

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Narrative Lectionary Text: Ruth 3:10-13

He said, “May you be blessed by the Lord, my daughter; this last instance of your loyalty is better than the first; you have not gone after young men, whether poor or rich. And now, my daughter, do not be afraid, I will do for you all that you ask, for all the assembly of my people know that you are a worthy woman. But now, though it is true that I am a near kinsman, there is another kinsman more closely related than I. Remain this night, and in the morning, if he will act as next-of-kin for you, good; let him do it. If he is not willing to act as next-of-kin for you, then, as the Lord lives, I will act as next-of-kin for you. Lie down until the morning.”