Reflect on today’s reading using this question: What action does Naomi take to care for herself and Ruth?

Receiving and Giving

At Naomi’s urging, Ruth visits Boaz’s bed at night and essentially asks him to marry her (3:1–9). Boaz does not take advantage of her but vows to offer to take care of her and Naomi and have a family with Ruth (3:10–11). He checks with the one other relative who has the first right of marrying Ruth and buying the land of Naomi’s deceased husband and sons, but this man does not want to (4:6). So Boaz purchases the property and takes Ruth as his wife, gaining the respect and blessing of the whole town (4:11–12).

Reflect on your story:

• What are some simple ways you can care for yourself when you have experienced loss?