Today, we see men and women as equal; they can make decisions, have a job, and choose a spouse. But, that was not the case at the time. This chapter is not a romantic film scene where Boaz and Ruth see each other with new eyes and fall madly in love.
But, Naomi had recognised the caring nature of Boaz towards Ruth and saw an opportunity for Ruth to move forward. Ruth knew how Boaz had helped her and recognised that he would take care of her and look after her. It is a chapter of mutual understanding and care.
One day Ruth’s mother-in-law Naomi said to her, ‘My daughter, I must find a home for you, where you will be well provided for. Now Boaz, with whose women you have worked, is a relative of ours. Tonight he will be winnowing barley on the threshing-floor. Wash, put on perfume, and get dressed in your best clothes. Then go down to the threshing-floor, but don’t let him know you are there until he has finished eating and drinking. When he lies down, note the place where he is lying. Then go and uncover his feet and lie down. He will tell you what to do.’
Ruth 3: 1-4 [NIV]
Opportunities to leave our dark places and move forward from difficult situations come in all sorts of ways. But how do you respond to them? Are you afraid of leaving the dark place because you are unsure of where it will lead, or afraid of returning to it? Do you find it easy to trust that God will provide a way out of the darkness?
Ruth would never forget the death of her first husband, a hard journey to Naomi’s homeland and living on the leftovers from the fields. Moving forward is not about forgetting what has passed but realising God has a plan ahead.
Lord, thank you that you always have a plan for us. Help us to trust in you as we face the opportunities you have given us.
Anna Naish
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