Ruth 2

“Why have I found favor in your eyes, that you should take notice of me, since I am a foreigner?" (v10).  As an upstanding Israelite, it was surprising that Boaz should pay attention to a foreign woman poor enough to glean in his field.  But Ruth’s willingness to take on her mother-in-law’s care (since Naomi was without provision or protection) had been “reported” to Boaz (v11), and he was impressed.  He recognized that Ruth had risked much in her choice to commit to Naomi and the God of Israel (v12).  

“She is the young Moabite woman …” (v6).  Ruth’s culture didn’t define her.  She was known by her convictions and her actions, which reflected a heart full of love.