Guardian–Redeemer

Ruth 3-4; Psalms 64-65; 2 Corinthians 6 

“’Who are you?’ he asked. ‘I am your servant Ruth,’ she said. ‘Spread the corner of your garment over me, since you are a kinsman-redeemer [guardian-redeemer].’”

Ruth 3:9

Ruth’s faith-filled request for Boaz to spread the corner of his garment over her could have been rejected. Yet it is this humility and faith-filled plea that God looks for in extending salvation to those who come to him. Some translations use the word “wings” instead of “corner of your garment.” Both words represent protection and refuge. The redeemer, or guardian-redeemer, was the closest relative who could intervene in the case of a widow who was childless. To maintain the family name and lineage the redeemer would marry the widow and acquire her property. In Christ, we have received a guardian-redeemer who has adopted us into his family and brought us under the shelter of his wings. We now belong to him and have been given the name of Jesus Christ. This approach of faith and grace-filled response will transform not only our lives, but the lives of those of the generations who come after us. 

“Lord Jesus, thank you for being my guardian-redeemer and for spreading your protection over me, for your glory.”