What can we learn from Boaz's actions about treating strangers and foreigners? Setting the Scene in Ruth 2 Ruth, a Moabite widow, has come to Bethlehem with Naomi. Because of God’s provision in the Law, the poor and foreigners could glean behind harvesters (Leviticus 19:9-10). As the owner of the field, Boaz arrives and immediately notices Ruth. Boaz’s First Words: A Model of Interest and Respect “Then Boaz asked the foreman of his harvesters, ‘Whose young woman is this?’” (Ruth 2:5) • Attentiveness: Boaz pays attention to someone easily overlooked. • Personal concern: He does not dismiss Ruth as “that Moabite.” He seeks to know her situation. • Respectful language: “Young woman” conveys dignity. No prejudice or slur appears in his inquiry. How Boaz Treats Ruth after Verse 5 Although the question in 2:5 introduces Ruth, the verses that follow reveal his heart. Together they paint a full picture of how to treat strangers and foreigners. 1. Provide opportunity (2:8) “Stay here with my servant girls.” Boaz ensures ongoing access to glean. 2. Guarantee safety (2:9) “I have commanded the young men not to touch you.” Protection is explicit. 3. Offer refreshment (2:9) “When you are thirsty, go and drink from the jars the young men have filled.” He shares his resources. 4. Speak kindly (2:13) Ruth says, “You have comforted me … by speaking kindly to your servant.” Words matter. 5. Go beyond the minimum (2:14-16) He invites her to eat at his table and orders extra grain to be left for her. Mercy exceeds legal obligation. Principles for Treating Strangers and Foreigners Today • Notice people who are new, vulnerable, or different. • Learn their story before forming judgments. • Extend practical help—safety, provision, inclusion. • Use words that uplift, never words that wound. • Move from bare-minimum obligation to lavish generosity. Supporting Scriptures • Leviticus 19:33-34: “When a foreigner resides with you in your land, you must not oppress him. … love him as yourself.” • Deuteronomy 10:18-19: “He executes justice for the fatherless and widow, and He loves the foreigner, giving him food and clothing.” • Exodus 22:21: “You must not exploit or oppress a foreign resident.” • Matthew 25:35: “I was a stranger and you took Me in.” • Hebrews 13:2: “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers.” Practical Takeaways • Ask God to open your eyes to those who feel invisible. • Create safe environments—workplaces, churches, neighborhoods—where outsiders can thrive. • Share resources without expecting repayment. • Speak blessing; your words can be a refuge. • Let generosity flow from the grace you have received in Christ, our Kinsman-Redeemer, who welcomed us when we were strangers to God. |
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