Ruth’s story:
Ruth and Naomi’s story is one of loyalty, resilience, and divine providence, and is told in the Book of Ruth. After losing their husbands, Naomi urges her daughters-in-law to return to their families. Ruth, however, refuses and famously declares, “Where you go, I will go… your people will be my people, and your God my God.” Together, they journey to Bethlehem, where Ruth works by gleaning in the fields to support them.
Naomi then instructs Ruth to go to Boaz at night, uncover his feet, and lie down. This was a bold and respectful gesture within ancient Israelite customs, signalling Ruth’s request for Boaz to act as her kinsman-redeemer – a relative who could marry her to preserve her deceased husband’s family line. Boaz responds honourably, praising Ruth’s loyalty and virtue. He ensures the proper legal steps are taken before marrying her, and their union is blessed with a son, Obed. Obed becomes the grandfather of King David, placing Ruth – a foreigner—within the lineage of Israel’s greatest king and, ultimately, Jesus.
Reflection:
Ruth’s joy doesn’t come from ease – it comes from loyalty, risk, and faith. She leaves everything behind to follow Naomi, and finds joy in belonging and purpose. Advent joy is not shallow happiness. It’s the deep gladness that comes from trust and commitment. And so, Ruth’s story ends with a baby – Obed, who becomes the grandfather of King David. Joy born from faithfulness. Where is God inviting you to choose joy – even when it’s hard?
Desires entwined and disguised in humanity. Is there room for Christ?
Lost in the silence, stricken with grief and mourning, her son was my life.
Our loved ones all gone left us poor and destitute. How will we survive?
A Moabite not welcome - forever condemned. In the House of Bread
gleaning Boaz' fields finds glimmer of hope on the threshing floor by night.
Naomi's cunning plan glorified in God's sight deems us both worthy.
In a foreign land my joy is complete, her God and people mine too.
Does He remember me? When Mary seeks refuge in Bethlehem town.
In loving kindness Jospeh and Boaz, choices considered, pledged all.
From our surrender, each to another, is blessed like Tamar, a son
living among us to raise the lowly He tells in joyous spirit
from East they came paying homage to the King born the Son of Man:
waiting patiently in expectation for God to come again now.
