Remember where we started the book of Ruth? Naomi had lost everything. She lost her husband, her children, her people, everything. This book begins with having nothing. But then, we see God’s loving kindness modeled over and over again. Ruth to Naomi. Ruth to Boaz. Boaz to Ruth. And in the end, God to Naomi. God’s kindness to Naomi affects all of Israel and affects each of us to this very day.

Shameless plug: here’s a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history.

Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he’ll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God’s Word.

If you’d like to receive this daily reflection on your phone, text @39110 to 81010 to sign up.

Click on the image above or this link to watch today’s video.

You can read today’s passage here.

You can podcast this reflection here. You can subscribe through Spotify or Apple Podcasts as well.

Or, if you’d like to read the transcript of the video, keep reading!

ood morning! It’s great to be with you today as we conclude the Book of Ruth. Let’s look at Ruth 4:13-22 and reflect on the story’s powerful conclusion and themes of redemption.

The book begins with Naomi’s life shattered—she’s lost her husband, her sons, and her hope. She even renames herself “Mara,” meaning bitterness, feeling as though God has dealt harshly with her. However, as we reach the end, we see a beautiful reversal. Ruth and Boaz marry, and Ruth gives birth to Obed, who becomes the grandfather of King David. Naomi, once empty and bitter, now holds her grandson in her arms, experiencing renewed joy and restoration.

This story isn’t just about Naomi and Ruth; it’s about the transformative power of kindness. Ruth’s loyalty to Naomi, Boaz’s generosity to Ruth, and God’s sovereign hand work together to redeem a seemingly hopeless situation. Ruth, an outsider and Moabite, becomes a central figure in the lineage of David and, ultimately, Jesus Christ. Through her, God’s plan of salvation unfolds for all of humanity.

In today’s world, marked by division and isolation, the kindness demonstrated in Ruth’s story offers a timely lesson. Acts of kindness—whether small or great—can have transformative and redemptive effects. It’s through relationships and compassion that we reflect God’s love and create lasting change.

As we reflect on Ruth, let’s carry forward its message of redemptive kindness. Let’s look for ways to love, serve, and be kind to those around us, trusting that God can use even our smallest acts for His greater purpose.

Tomorrow, we’ll begin the Book of Esther, another incredible story of God’s providence. Thanks for being with us today—have a wonderful day, and remember to love God, love others, and show kindness!