Have Mercy on Me
30 Days in Ruth and Esther - day 9
When we read a passage like this, it can feel strange to us. That’s understandable because our culture is far removed from the world of Ruth and Boaz. But the distance should not keep us from seeing the beautiful picture of redemption set before us.
The heart of the passage is found in verse 9. Some English translations say Ruth calls Boaz a “close relative.” But the word she uses is goel—a kinsman-redeemer. This was the nearest relative who had both the right and the responsibility to redeem.
We will see more of what that involves as the story unfolds, but this much is clear: Boaz is the one who can save Ruth from her situation.
And this redemption goes beyond simple kindness. Boaz has already shown her generosity in the field. But this is different. This is a legal act, one that involves marriage, family, and inheritance. If Boaz acts as her redeemer, he is not just helping her; he is binding himself to her.
What Ruth does here is an act of bold, humble faith. She comes to Boaz at night, lies down at his feet, and places herself entirely at his mercy, trusting in his character.
Her request is striking: “Take your maidservant under your wings.”
This is more than a request for protection. It is a plea for covenant mercy, for redemption.
And this is exactly what we do when we come to Christ.
We do not come offering anything. We come empty. We come needy. And we cast ourselves at His feet, asking Him to cover us, to claim us, to redeem us.
Ruth rests at the feet of a worthy man.
We rest at the feet of a perfect Savior.
Redemption begins the same way for all of us - not with what we bring, but before Whom we humbly bow.
I find it comforting that Boaz already knew so much about her, “And now, my daughter, do not fear. I will do for you all that you ask, for all my fellow townsmen know that you are a worthy woman.”
Seems he was already looking into her situation. That’s got to preach somewhere.