Living Out JusticeSample

Compassionate provision

‘Then Boaz announced to the elders and all the people, “Today you are witnesses that I have bought from Naomi all the property of Elimelek, Kilion and Mahlon. I have also acquired Ruth the Moabite, Mahlon’s widow, as my wife...”’ (Ruth 4:9-10, NIV)

Reflect:

The conclusion of the Book of Ruth shows a happy ending that is a far cry from the bitter reality of Naomi and Ruth’s position in Chapter 1.

In Chapter 3, we witness a plan – carried out by Naomi and Ruth – to ensure that Boaz would notice their position. No longer in her grieving clothes, Ruth visited Boaz to indicate her availability for marriage.

Just as Boaz saw Ruth as a woman of ‘noble character’, he is a man of honour. He guaranteed Ruth the protection and provision she was seeking and ensured that all was done properly, insisting on her dignity despite her vulnerable position.

Through purchasing Naomi’s land and choosing to marry Ruth, Boaz stepped into a future far greater than he could have imagined. Their son, Obed, became the grandfather of King David and an ancestor of Jesus Christ. The compassionate actions of Boaz remind us that an act of kindness has ripples, like the continued impact of a stone thrown into water. The ripples of Boaz’s kindness lasted for centuries, shaping many lives beyond Ruth and Naomi.

The Book of Ruth sees a total reversal of tragedy, an image of the transformative power of God’s loving-kindness. Naomi’s belief that God had turned his face away from her becomes just a chapter in his story of redemption through Jesus.

Daily Action:

Boaz’s kindness towards Ruth and Naomi was not just an act of generosity, but it is a lesson in compassionate provision and treating others with dignity. When we have the chance to help others, do we pause to consider not just the need, but the dignity of the person?

Consider creating a ‘Community Care Box’ for a local church, workplace or school, where people can anonymously donate essential items for those in need. Items should cover diverse needs depending on your community – from hygiene products to gift cards, winter clothing to school supplies.

Ensure the items are presented well, with thought and care, and not treated as someone else’s leftovers. This may mean taking additional time to clean, check, and mend donated items. Prioritise the recipient’s right to discretion – don’t make a spectacle of your good deeds. Instead, provide a quiet and calming space to receive.

If you can personally distribute items – whether through a drop-in or delivery service – engage in conversation with genuine interest. Offer choices instead of assuming needs and seek to empower rather than to simply provide.

Prayer:

Lord, in loving-kindness you rewrite our stories and turn sorrow into joy. Teach me to walk in generosity and grace. May I reflect your heart in all I do, and may my actions ripple beyond what I can see.

Inhale: Lord, in love, you give us good things.

Exhale: May I never underestimate the gift of kindness.