Is God’s love “reckless”? This message answers that question through the Book of Ruth, where redemption isn’t sentimental, it’s costly. Naomi and Ruth return to Bethlehem with nothing, surviving only by gleaning, until Ruth “happens” to end up in the field of Boaz, a man with the power to become their kinsman-redeemer (go’el).
As the story unfolds, we see the difference between temporary help and true redemption: redemption restores identity, security, and belonging. It comes with a price, so high that the first redeemer in line refuses because it could “endanger” his own estate. Boaz, however, chooses the cost.
And then the twist: Naomi, who came home empty, ends up holding a child in her arms…a son whose line leads to King David, and ultimately to King Jesus. Redemption isn’t just changing Ruth’s story; it’s God moving redemption through their story into the world.
Ultimately, this message points to the greater reality Ruth foreshadows: Jesus is our Redeemer, close enough to represent us, strong enough to save us, and loving enough to choose us. We don’t need a little help; we need a new status, a new name, and a new life, and Jesus has already paid the price in full.
