Scene Four

**Ruth 4:1-12**

After meeting with Ruth, Boaz doesn’t waste any time sorting out who will carry on Elimilech’s name. He convenes a meeting between himself and the closest kinsman-redeemer at the town gate, with ten of the town’s elders as witnesses. Initially, the closest kinsman-redeemer takes on the task, but when told Ruth is part of the package, he withdraws his claim. At this Boaz takes on the responsibility of taking on Ruth as his wife and seals the contract with a sandal.

Throughout the proceedings, Boaz was a man of character and integrity, being able to convene a meeting at his behest and doing everything completely transparently. Evidently, both Boaz and the nearest kinsman-redeemer had the means to take on the contract, but the cost of taking on the contract was too much for the nearest kinsman-redeemer, whereas Boaz was willing to go through with it.

Through this small event, the monarchy of Israel would be descended, and ultimately the redeemer of the world, Jesus Christ, would come.

This is also a picture of this redeemer. Though I am a sinner and worthy of hell, the redeemer was willing and had the means to save sinners such as me. He was willing to pay the cost of his own life and standing that I might be redeemed through faith. If he is willing to do that for me, shouldn’t I be willing to trust him and do his will?