Welcome, Stranger!
Ruth - 2:8,9 - So Boaz said to Ruth, "My daughter, listen to me. Don't go and glean in another field and don't go away from here. Stay here with my servant girls. Watch the field where the men are harvesting, and follow along after the girls. I have told the men not to touch you. And whenever you are thirsty, go and get a drink from the water jars the men have filled.
By telling Ruth to stay, Boaz gave her permission to glean (pick up leftovers) from his fields all the time. Since she was a stranger, she was probably unsure of herself. Boaz helped her further by telling her to stay with his own servant girls. He knew she would probably be more comfortable with them than alone. And then he told the guys working for him to leave her told her to feel free to drink from his own water supply.
Making a stranger feel at home is something that most of us need help with. When a stranger comes to church, how do we treat him or her? Do we include the new person in our greetings? In conversation? Do we ask them if they have any questions about the service? They may not be accustomed to worshiping with a liturgy, a hymnal, close communion, or to worshiping at all.
For Boaz, reaching out to the stranger was something he seemed comfortable and familiar with - notice his quick attention to every concern Ruth might have. Looking out for strangers may be something we can get good at with a little practice. As for Boaz, we shall see what the result of his kindness would be. As for you and me, it might just mean another soul won by the Holy Spirit.
THINGS TO THINK ABOUT: How might offering a helping hand open the door to share the Gospel with someone?
PRAYER SUGGESTIONS: Ask God for the wisdom and courage to help others, especially those in need.