Insightful Musings on the Scriptures

by

Raymond P. Sparre
Northwest University class of '67

Good morning, special ones.

Becki gave her full approval to this composition…so, what more can I say? You can send any complaints to her.

Warm temperature is inspiring both wind and rain. I’m not sure if I want to get out to the sawmill…even though it’s under a roof. Oh well, I have lots of indoor work too. So, here we go with another adventure-filled day. Blessings on yours.

Love, Dad/Ray

In contrast to some recent readings disclosing Israel’s horrible history, this reading was an enjoyable breeze. Is there any story line more entertaining and attracting than one depicting human romance—one involving the universal emotions and chemistry of gender attractions? Naomi was certainly aware of these realities. She knew Boaz was already smitten, so it was easy to instruct Ruth with a strategy to turn up the heat—“Wash and perfume yourself, and put on your best clothes…Then go and uncover his feet and lie down. He will tell you what to do” (Ruth 3:2-4). Whew! I can smell the perfume from here. Don’t look so blank—you know what’s going on. When Ruth returned home the following morning and gave her report, Naomi was elated. Knowing how this stuff works, I can imagine her exclaiming, “Praise God! Good job, Ruth! We nearly have a done deal here!” “For the man will not rest until the matter is settled today” (3:18). No one was enjoying the story more than Naomi.

Boaz also knew how this stuff worked. And he was only too aware of the arousal of “feeling” that was welling up inside of him. But he didn’t want to display any of that before the elders and the closest “kinsman-redeemer.” Instead, he put together the court and made his presentation very calmly and matter-of-factly. He knew the game was not over, so he wanted to play his cards just right. The other guy was quite willing to “redeem” Naomi’s land. That’s when Boaz put down his most critical card—“Oh, by the way, you need to understand that the deal also includes taking in Naomi’s daughter-in-law from Moab as your wife.” It may have been in Boaz’s favor that this other guy hadn’t seen her yet. He replied, “Well, in that case, I can’t do it.” Boaz did his best to keep a straight face and stay calm, but I can hear his internal explosion—“YES!!”

How am I doing with this account? Are you bored yet? I would guess you’re not. After all, we are touching on one of the deepest and strongest arenas of human attraction and longing known to mankind. And it sure wasn’t made by our culture, government, or those who participate in it. Not only did the Sovereign Creator design and craft it, He has clearly set standards and boundaries for its use—and clearly wants to bless it. Prioritize a HEART AFTER GOD and be blessed.