The book of Ruth - God of refuge - Don Palmer

Central Church - A church in Edinburgh, Scotland

As we come to chapter 2, our second act, we find ourselves back in Bethlehem where a whole set of unique vulnerabilities become apparent for these women. The famine may be over, but the struggle isn’t and so Ruth takes the brave step to go to the field the glean. The stage widens in this chapter and a third key character enters the scene - here we meet Boaz. We learn throughout this chapter that he will play a very key role in this story, being named as a relative, being in Elimilech’s clan and most importantly, being a kinsman redeemer. This chapter teaches us about the refuge of God, both the refuge that we can receive but also the refuge we can give. Ruth was able to glean here because of the ‘Law of the Field’ which was meant to ensure protection and provision for the poor and for outsiders. But a law must be upheld if it’s to be any good! Boaz we learn is a man who upholds God’s law, he knows his God is a God who gives refuge and he knows his part to play in that. How do those in the family of God, seeking the Kingdom of God, provide places of refuge for outsiders?