In the middle of the night something startled the man, and he turned and discovered a woman lying at his feet. “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.” Ruth 3:8-9

In Ruth’s world, the gesture of redemption was clear and covenantal. When a man was willing to serve as a go’el (a kinsman-redeemer), he would extend the corner of his cloak over the woman as a sign of protection, provision, and belonging. It was not an act of seduction; it was a request wrapped in humility and courage. She sought to preserve her husband’s lineage, to place herself under the shelter of the one appointed by God’s law to protect her. In that culture, family restored family. God’s statutes were not merely rules; they were channels of mercy.

And yet, human nature being what it is, not every man who fulfilled the law did so with joy. Some obeyed, performing the duty but withholding the grace. The law, meant to lead God’s people into abundant life, could become burdensome in the hands of the ungodly. No doubt, many women found themselves technically covered by obligation but not by kindness.

Generations later, her great-grandson, King David, would echo that same spirit when he wrote, “You, Lord, have been my help; in the shadow of Your wings I sing for joy.” Psalm 63:7

Much later, King David, Ruth’s great-grandson, would write, “You, Lord, have been my help. In the shadow of Your wings I sing for joy.” Psalms 63:7 He knew about redemption and the gracious spirit in which God provided it. David’s words teach me that I can go to my Redeemer at any time without fear of rejection. My own poverty does not repel Him. His love, not law, fuels his love for me. The only barrier is my own hesitation to come.

Jesus, gather the loose threads of my life into Your covering. Heal what time has frayed and redeem what fear has hidden.Amen