Redemption and Romance

The Bible is not merely a collection of stories to inspire us to live successful lives. The stories of the Bible, including that of Ruth, reveal the character and the works of God. While the book of Ruth has a romantic element, it is not merely another Disney or Jane Austen story. What is remarkable about the romance in Ruth is that both the male and female leads love God more than they love each other. They are married as an expression of their loyal service to Him. Such a marriage actually produces greater happiness and honor than the self-serving marriages which are so much more typical.

The selfless lovingkindess of Boaz and Ruth is contrasted with others (a nameless kinsman and Orpah) who pursue self-interest, but wind up being forgotten.

Boaz as the faithful kinsman-redeemer is a picture of Jesus our Kinsman-Redeemer Who acted selflessly to deliver us at great cost.