May 6

From: May 6, 2014

The little book of Ruth illustrates the use of the Levitical law (found in Lev. 25) which provided for a woman who had no male heir to retain her family’s property. This provision in the law called for a close family member to become a “ga’al,” which is the Hebrew word for “kinsman-redeemer.” In Ruth, Boaz takes the role of the ga’al, a selfless act that enabled Naomi and Ruth not only to have an inheritance but gave them a son to carry on the name of their dead son and husband. It seems ironic that it was a foreign woman who activated this law. Yet, God often brings people that are far away, near to Him in faith. So, the story of Boaz and Ruth inform us of the kinsman-redeemer practice and also show us the preparation for the ultimate Kinsman-Redeemer, Jesus Christ, son of David, son of Jesse… Obed… Boaz and Ruth, and the Son of God.

From: May 6, 2013

The little books of Ruth and Jonah have much in common. Four chapters, literary works of art, easily seen as 4-act plays, and more… But more profound is that they both foreshadow great doctrines of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Both books show how God’s message of salvation is for non-Jews too. In Jonah it’s the Ninevites. In Ruth it’s the Moabite. Jonah’s 3-days in the fish foreshadows Christ’s time in the tomb and resurrection. And Ruth’s redemption by Boaz foreshadows Christ’s redemption of all who come to Him. In Boaz, we see the Hebrew “kinsman-redeemer,” — the one according to Levitical law that was to redeem a deceased kin’s wife and property. The Hebrew word is “ga’al,” and foreshadows Christ redeeming His bride, which is the Church. The redeemed Moabitess Ruth became the great grandmother of David, and therefore in the line of Jesus. Now that’s amazing redemption!