If your brother becomes poor and sells part of his property, then his nearest relative shall come and redeem what his brother has sold. (Lev 25:25)
The LORD bless him!” Naomi said to her daughter-in-law. He has not stopped showing his kindness to the living and the dead.” She added, “That man is our close relative; he is one of our kinsman-redeemers. (Ruth 2:20)
When the time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under law, to redeem those under law, that we might receive the full rights of sons. Because you are sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, “Abba, Father.” So you are no longer a slave, but a son; and since you are a son, God has made you also an heir. (Galatians 4:4–7)
In the book of Leviticus, Moses delivered the law of God to the people A huge component of that law were the rules that would ensure that people who were hurting, the underdogs and the marginalized would be cared for. God’s desire is always that the hopeless could have their hope restored, that slaves could again be free. In the book of Ruth we see these rules enfleshed as two widows, hopeless and enslaved in bitterness are restored and redeemed in hope.
The story of Ruth is fascinating because of Ruth’s place in the linage of King David and of Jesus. It is at least equally important for what it shows us about God’s plan of redemption, and his role in accomplishing that plan. God’s law required that people redeem their relatives from poverty and enslavement -- regardless of how got there. God’s gift to humanity is his offer to free strangers from their poverty and enslavement -- regardless of how they God their.
So, let's get personal. Do you feel redeemed, rescued, set free, unbound? Does the reality of your redemption live with you, or, is it something that you take for granted? Talk with God (and others if you like) about your answer to these questions.
Rest in the reality of your redemption. Move out in your freedom.
Peace, hope and love
Doug
Posts
