Key Verse: John 10:10 – “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.”
Introduction
The book of Ruth is a beautiful story of redemption, love, and divine providence. In Ruth 2, we see Ruth, a Moabite widow, stepping into the fields of Boaz, unaware that she is about to encounter unmerited favor. This chapter not only portrays a historical account of Ruth’s provision but also foreshadows the abundant grace found in Jesus Christ. Just as Boaz welcomed Ruth into his field, Jesus welcomes us into the field of His grace, providing abundantly for our needs.
Ruth’s Humble Beginning: Seeking Provision
As the chapter opens, Ruth takes initiative to provide for herself and Naomi by gleaning in the fields. Under the Law of Moses, landowners were required to leave behind grain for the poor and foreigners (Leviticus 19:9-10). Ruth, as a Moabite, had no rights among the Israelites, yet she humbly seeks provision.
This reflects our own spiritual state before Christ. We are outsiders, broken and spiritually poor, unable to provide for ourselves. Yet, through faith, we step into the field of grace, seeking nourishment from the true provider—Jesus Christ.
Boaz: A Picture of Christ the Redeemer
Boaz, the owner of the field, is introduced as a noble man of wealth and kindness. When he notices Ruth gleaning, he extends extraordinary kindness to her, ensuring she is protected and provided for.
- Boaz sees Ruth before she sees him – Just as Jesus saw us before we ever saw Him (Romans 5:8).
- Boaz instructs his workers to leave extra grain for Ruth – Jesus provides for us abundantly, not just for survival but for flourishing (John 10:10).
- Boaz welcomes Ruth, despite her being a Moabite – Jesus welcomes all people, regardless of their background or past (Ephesians 2:13).
The Field of Grace: A Place of Abundance
Boaz tells Ruth to remain in his fields and drink from the water provided. This is a profound picture of how Jesus invites us to abide in Him. He provides living water, satisfying our deepest thirst (John 4:14). Just as Ruth found safety, provision, and belonging in Boaz’s field, we find security and abundance in Christ.
Ruth’s Response: Gratitude and Humility
Ruth’s reaction to Boaz’s kindness is one of deep gratitude and humility. She recognizes that she is undeserving of such favor. Likewise, when we recognize the grace of Jesus, our response should be worship and surrender.
- She bows before Boaz in gratitude – Our response to Jesus’ grace should be worship (Psalm 95:6).
- She acknowledges that she is a foreigner – We were once alienated from God, but through Christ, we have been brought near (Ephesians 2:12-13).
- She remains in Boaz’s field – We are called to remain in Christ, trusting in His provision and protection (John 15:5).
A Meal of Grace: Foreshadowing the Bread of Life
Later, Boaz invites Ruth to eat at his table, giving her bread and roasted grain (Ruth 2:14). This is a foreshadowing of the invitation Jesus gives us to partake in the Bread of Life (John 6:35). The Lord does not just provide for us—He invites us to dine with Him, to share in intimate fellowship with Him.
The Overflowing Provision
Ruth leaves Boaz’s field with more than enough to sustain her and Naomi. This illustrates how Jesus provides not only for our immediate needs but also blesses us beyond expectation (Ephesians 3:20). When we abide in Him, we lack nothing (Psalm 23:1).
Conclusion: Jesus, Our Boaz
Boaz’s kindness to Ruth is a reflection of the boundless grace found in Jesus Christ. Just as Boaz welcomed Ruth into his field, Jesus welcomes us into His kingdom, providing abundantly for our every need. In Him, we find true satisfaction, security, and eternal abundance.
Like Ruth, let us remain in His field of grace, trusting in our Redeemer, knowing that He alone gives life and life abundantly (John 10:10).
