The Book of Ruth Series- First Encounter -Lesson 12

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Ruth 2:4-16

The sun was almost straight overhead when Boaz rode in from Bethlehem to oversee his harvest. He had carefully selected his reapers, knowing each worker by name. As a leader in Bethlehem, Boaz also knew the gleaners. However today, from atop his steed, he spied someone new.

“The Lord be with you,” Boaz greeted his workers.

“The Lord bless you,” they responded.

Making his way to his servant in charge, he dismounted and asked, “Who’s the new gleaner?”

The servant replied, “She is Ruth, the young Moabite daughter-in-law of Naomi, widow of Elimelech. She came to our field this morning and asked to glean after the reapers. You never turn gleaners away, so I granted her request. Ruth works very hard and even in this hot sun, she has only taken one break all morning.

“Hmmm,” Boaz said, thoughtfully stroking his beard. “Tell me more.”

After receiving a full report, Boaz approached Ruth. “Good morning,” he said.

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Startled, Ruth ceased gleaning and stood erect. “Good morning,” she said lowering her eyes and head.

“So you are Naomi’s daughter-in-law?”

A little fearful, Ruth just shook her head in reply.

“Listen to me, my daughter. “…Do not go to glean in another field, nor go from here, but stay close by my young women. Let your eyes be on the field which they reap, and go after them…” (Ruth 2:8-9)

“I have taken measures for your protection. My young men will not harass or bother you while you glean, and please think of yourself as one of my hired workers. When you are thirsty, feel free to drink from the water vessels. When the food is prepared, come and partake with my reapers.”

Ruth dropped to her knees with her face to the ground. "…Why have I found favor in your eyes, that you should take notice of me…?” (Ruth 2:10)

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“I have heard all about you and the kindnesses you have shown Naomi. May the Lord God of Israel give you a full reward and shelter under His almighty arms of protection.”

“Thank you, for such comforting words," she said looking up. "I pray I may find favor in your sight.”

Boaz and Ruth’s first encounter may have gone something like this. Nevertheless, since Boaz is a type of Christ, we should see our God in this scenario.

What did Boaz do for Ruth? He accepted her, supplied ample food and drink, protection and safety.

Jesus says, “Come to Me and I will not turn you away. I will quench your thirst and satisfy your hunger, because I Am your Fountain of Living Water and your Bread of Life."

The name of our God is a strong tower where we can run for safety. His arms are everlasting and protective, longing to gather us as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings.

Boaz did more for Ruth than she ever expected.

However, Jesus, our Boaz, does exceedingly abundantly above all we can ask or even think.

Truly, there is none like Him.

For more study, the following scriptures may help:  John 6:37, Matt. 11:28, John 7:37-38 John 4:14, John 6:35, Prov. 18:10, Deut. 33:27, Ps. 91:1-2, Matt. 23:37