Deeper Blog

So, it’s my final blog. And I have tiptoed around it. I pushed it to one side and brushed it under the carpet. I turned the other way and not even acknowledged it’s existence. I have put it off and refused to… and now I am doing it again.

The question is… what did happen that night between Boaz and Ruth? Let’s have a look at what the Bible says.

1. Ruth visits Boaz in the middle of the night.
2. Boaz wakes up to find strange woman at his feet.
3. Boaz realises aforementioned strange woman is the more aforementioned Ruth.
4. Conversation ensues.
5. Boaz promises to be Ruth’s redeemer if possible.
6. Ruth goes back to sleep.
7. Boaz gives Ruth gift to bring back for Naomi
8. Ruth leaves early in the morning, so as not to be seen.

That’s it. No, really. Maybe I just like Boaz, but he seems to me to be absolutely impeccable in his behaviour. Let me explain…

When Boaz first finds Ruth at the bottom of his bed, after the obligatory “Who are you?”, and Ruth’s explanation, his first words are “The Lord bless you!” This is in complete contrast to the “Nice, one I’ve pulled..” which I guess would probably be muttered under the breath of most guys if they found themselves in this position.

Next, he compliments Ruth and, rather than taking advantage of woman in obvious desperate need, he explains the situation to her, but promises to do all he can.

Then he tells her to go back to sleep. At first I though this was a little weird. Why not just send her home again? – She got what she came for. But then again, sending a woman out to walk alone at night is never the best idea, especially at this time of year when men are celebrating after bringing in the harvest. Again, good move.

And then came the morning. Boaz sends Ruth off home before daylight. This was not only to protect his reputation, but also hers. Of this I have no doubt.

And finally, in what has to be the best move yet – Single men, take note – he sends a huge gift back with Ruth to his future mother-in-law! Bang, wallop, Checkmate, Game over, Thank you very much!

This guy was a genius and my eyes, above reproach. He is always gentle, kind, patient and loving. What a role model for us today. I am always a little annoyed that we don’t find out more about Boaz. Come on, even Jeremiah had a book named after him, and he wasn’t exactly the most inspirational person in the Bible…

But then again, that is often the way it is. The kindest and most faithful people are often those who toil endlessly and quietly in the background seeking no reward or thanks for what they do. But that does not mean that they don’t deserve it! So let me end this week of Blogs with a thank you.

Boaz, you are fantastic!

Now it’s your turn. Find someone (do it now, don’t just sit there thinking about it, unless of course it is 6.30am) and tell them how much you appreciate what they do!

Thanks for reading,

Over to you, Matt!

Sam