“For He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son He loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.”  Colossians 1:13-14 In the story of Ruth, the upstanding man Boaz declared his willingness to be the “kinsman-redeemer” for Naomi and Ruth.  As such, he could provide them with a family, security and a bright future.  In a much more glorious and eternal way, Jesus Christ is our Redeemer and does the same for us.  He declared his willingness to do this through his sacrificial death on the cross which atones for our sins.  Let us be forever grateful!  

“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.”  Ruth 2:12  Boaz spoke these words to the young woman Ruth.  He had heard about her kindness toward her mother-in-law Naomi, and had seen her hard work.  He also knew God rewards such righteousness.  Jesus teaches us not to be selfish or self-serving.  But at the same time, we are promised divine blessings for our faithfulness and good works.  They come from a God of grace who cares deeply for us.  Let’s open our hearts to receive God’s blessings by being a blessing to others!