Ruth: God at Work in Our LivesНамуна

Man with No Name 

It was the custom that the closest relative would decide if he could be the redeemer for Naomi’s family by marrying Ruth. We don’t know this man’s name, but he was a closer relative than Boaz. The idea of being a redeemer sounded profitable as he was going to acquire Naomi’s land for himself. But the moment he found out that he had to marry Ruth, the proposition seemed financially impractical. He was going to lose his financial resources for the sake of another man’s family. So he declines and Boaz gets to marry Ruth and be the redeemer. 

This relative with no name is a contrast to Boaz. The relative wanted to promote himself, profit from this deal and act shrewd. In short, he wanted to make a name for himself. And ironically, we don’t know his name, which is left out of the narrative. 

Boaz on the other hand, shows his godly character by being willing to give up his life for the sake of Ruth and Naomi. He wanted to be a blessing and make a name for the family of Elimelech. Today, we still remember the name Boaz. 

God’s ways are contrary to this world and seem upside down in values. If you lose your life, you will find it and if you try to keep your life, you will lose it. God rewards those who seek to honor Him even if it means to pay a cost and make a sacrifice in this world. 

When Jesus humbled Himself to the point of death on the cross, even though He was the glorious Son of God, He was given a name that is above every other name. As His children, when we receive what Jesus has done by faith, we are given a new name, a new identity and a new family. Jesus Himself is our great reward and we become coheirs with Him in glory. 

Are you seeking to make your name great? Or are you joyfully pursuing to make His great name known to all?