In what ways can we show kindness to strangers as Boaz did? Boaz’s Heart on Display “Then Boaz said to Ruth, ‘Listen, my daughter. Do not go and glean in another field, and do not leave this one, but stay close to my servant girls.’ ” (Ruth 2:8) What Boaz Actually Did • Spoke with gentle, familial warmth—“my daughter” • Provided safety—invited Ruth to remain in his field under his protection • Granted ongoing permission—made provision for daily, not one-time, help • Affirmed her dignity—placed her among his own workers, not at the margins Timeless Patterns We Can Follow 1. Create safe spaces ‑ Open our homes, churches, and workplaces so newcomers sense no threat (Psalm 91:2; Romans 15:7). 2. Offer clear, proactive help ‑ Don’t wait to be asked; approach first, as Boaz did (James 2:15-16). 3. Provide sustained care ‑ Kindness isn’t a single act but a continuing relationship (Galatians 6:9-10). 4. Affirm worth with words ‑ Speak encouragement that reflects God’s image in each person (Ephesians 4:29). 5. Share tangible resources ‑ Food, transportation, lodging, job connections—whatever meets real needs (Luke 3:11). 6. Protect the vulnerable ‑ Stand up against exploitation or prejudice directed at foreigners, widows, orphans (Isaiah 1:17). 7. Include, don’t isolate ‑ Invite strangers into community life: meals, small groups, celebrations (Romans 12:13). Supporting Scriptures • Leviticus 19:9-10—fields left for the poor and foreigner: the principle behind Boaz’s generosity. • Hebrews 13:2—“Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers…” • Matthew 25:35—“I was a stranger and you invited Me in.” • 3 John 1:5—commended for showing love “to the brothers, even though they are strangers to you.” • Proverbs 19:17—“Kindness to the poor is a loan to the LORD, and He will repay.” New Testament Echoes Jesus amplifies Boaz’s spirit in the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30-37). Like Boaz, the Samaritan notices, approaches, and sustains care. The call remains the same: mercy that costs us something. Motives That Fuel Enduring Kindness • Gratitude—remembering God’s grace toward us (Ephesians 2:12-13). • Obedience—living out the second greatest commandment (Mark 12:31). • Witness—demonstrating the gospel in action (Matthew 5:16). • Hope—sowing seeds of eternal reward (1 Corinthians 15:58). Living Out Covenant Kindness Today Boaz turned the ordinary act of harvesting into a rescue mission of love. Our everyday routines—shopping, commuting, working—can become fields where strangers find welcome, safety, and the unmistakable kindness of our Redeemer. |
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