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by Katie Erickson

At this, she bowed down with her face to the ground. She asked him, “Why have I found such favor in your eyes that you notice me — a foreigner?”
Boaz replied, “I’ve been told all about what you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband —how you left your father and mother and your homeland and came to live with a people you did not know before. May the LORD repay you for what you have done. May you be richly rewarded by the LORD, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge.”
“May I continue to find favor in your eyes, my lord,” she said. “You have put me at ease by speaking kindly to your servant—though I do not have the standing of one of your servants.”
- Ruth 2:10-13

In this section of the narrative, we witness an exchange between Ruth and Boaz that not only moves the story forward but also serves as a reflection of God’s unwavering love and provision for His people. We saw their first dialogue in the previous section, where Boaz initially expressed unexpected kindness to Ruth, and that continues here.

In verse 10, Ruth’s immediate response to Boaz’s kindness is striking. She bows with her face to the ground, a posture of deep humility and gratitude. Her question, “Why have I found such favor in your eyes that you notice me—a foreigner?” reveals her awareness of her social position as a Moabite in Bethlehem, a place where her status as a foreigner could easily subject her to rejection or abuse.

This moment is significant because it showcases Ruth’s humility. Despite her rights under the Mosaic law to glean in the fields (Leviticus 19:9-10), Ruth does not demand kindness; instead, she receives it with a grateful and humble heart. Her question is not one of entitlement but of genuine wonder at the grace shown to her.

Boaz’s response to Ruth’s question in verse 11 is profound. Rather than addressing her status as a Moabite or a widow, he focuses on her character and the sacrifices she made for Naomi. His words, “I’ve been told all about what you have done for your mother-in-law,” reflect a heart that values faithfulness, loyalty, and courage over nationality or past circumstances.

Boaz’s recognition of Ruth’s actions reveals an essential truth: God often works through those who, despite their marginalized status, display extraordinary faith and commitment. Boaz, a man of standing in Bethlehem, sees Ruth not as a foreigner but as a woman of noble character. This perspective mirrors how God sees us—not defined by our past or where we come from but by our faith and the condition of our hearts.

Boaz’s blessing over Ruth in verse 12 is powerful: “May the Lord repay you for what you have done. May you be richly rewarded by the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge.” The imagery of taking refuge under God’s wings evokes a sense of safety, warmth, and divine protection, echoing passages like Psalm 91:4: “He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge.” Boaz acknowledges that Ruth’s journey to Bethlehem was more than an act of loyalty—it was a step of faith, trusting in the God of Israel for provision and protection.

This blessing is also prophetic. Ruth, who came to Bethlehem empty, would soon be filled beyond measure—not just with grain but with a new family, a legacy, and a place in the lineage of King David and ultimately, Jesus Christ. It highlights a profound truth: God sees the sacrifices made in faith and rewards them abundantly, often in ways far beyond our expectations.

Ruth’s reply to Boaz in verse 13 is both gracious and humble: “May I continue to find favor in your eyes, my lord,” she said. “You have put me at ease by speaking kindly to your servant—though I do not have the standing of one of your servants.” Despite Boaz’s words of honor and blessing, Ruth maintains a posture of humility. She acknowledges her unworthiness not as self-deprecation but as an honest assessment of her status compared to Boaz’s other servants. Her gratitude for Boaz’s kindness reveals a heart at rest, one that has found peace in the face of uncertainty.

This interaction paints a beautiful picture of grace. Boaz’s kindness and Ruth’s humble reception of it reflect how God’s grace works in our lives—freely given and gratefully received. Ruth’s willingness to accept Boaz’s kindness also emphasizes the importance of embracing the grace extended to us by God and others, rather than pushing it away out of a sense of unworthiness.

Ruth’s humility made her receptive to Boaz’s kindness, much like how a humble heart opens us to God’s grace. In return, Boaz’s actions reflect God’s care for Ruth, showing how God often provides for us through others. He recognized Ruth’s loyalty, showing how he valued her character.

Just as Boaz extended kindness to Ruth without regard for her status, we are called to show unconditional love to others. In turn, when that love is shown to us, we should humbly accept it and not become entitled, expecting others to love in that way.

The interaction between Ruth and Boaz is a living illustration of God’s redemptive love. Ruth’s journey from being a foreigner gleaning in the fields to becoming part of the lineage of Christ shows the transformative power of grace and faith. Boaz, as a kinsman-redeemer, foreshadows Christ, who redeems us despite our unworthiness.

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