Ruth: A Story Of Redemption By Cailin Leacock ናሙና

Boaz Redeems Ruth and Naomi

While Ruth went back to Naomi, Boaz went to work. He was not idle with his time, but, as promised to Ruth, he sought to bring about justice. 

The matter of redeeming a kinsman was very much a legal responsibility. Upon learning about the widowed Moabitess that he would also have to redeem, the first kinsman relinquishes his rights and agrees to let Boaz redeem Naomi, Ruth and the land belonging to Elimelek. In the sight of an assembly, giving Boaz his sandal signified that he was giving up his rights as the kinsman-redeemer and giving Boaz permission to proceed. And with that, Boaz is now free to redeem and marry Ruth!

The marriage of Boaz and Ruth paints a beautiful picture of God’s love towards all of humanity; and of God’s plan of redemption and the fact that everyone is deserving of that redemption.

In honoring Naomi, God not only restores to Ruth what was lost but restores more than she could have imagined. Ruth is no longer the Moabite daughter-in-law of Naomi. She takes on the name, reputation and identity of her husband, Boaz.

Not only does Ruth have a new identity, but she also becomes a co-owner with Boaz. Similarly, Jesus has restored to us our dominion over all things. We are no longer bound servants to sin and death; we have been made victorious and triumphant. We are co-heirs with Christ! 

To be included in the lineage of the Messiah was not just a great honor for Ruth, but a fulfillment of a promise prayed over her. What a remarkable and inspiring story and what a unique and inspiring young woman. Not only do we see God’s faithful redemption, but we are also reminded that you don’t have to be anything other than available and willing for God to use your life in a mighty, significant and eternal way!

Have you taken ownership of the new identity that is yours in Christ?