Ruth

Ruth was a Moabite woman who married Mahlon, the son of Elimelech and Naomi, who had moved to Moab from Bethlehem due to a famine (Ruth 1:1-4). After the deaths of Elimelech, Mahlon, and Chilion (Naomi's other son), Naomi decided to return to Bethlehem (Ruth 1:6-7). Ruth, despite Naomi's urging to return to her own people, insisted on staying with her mother-in-law, demonstrating remarkable loyalty and faith in the God of Israel (Ruth 1:14-18). In Bethlehem, Ruth worked in the fields, gleaning grain to support herself and Naomi (Ruth 2:2-3). She caught the attention of Boaz, a wealthy relative of Elimelech (Ruth 2:8-16). Following Naomi's advice, Ruth approached Boaz at the threshing floor, asking him to fulfill the role of a kinsman-redeemer (Ruth 3:1-9). Boaz, impressed by Ruth's character and loyalty, agreed to marry her after a closer relative declined to do so (Ruth 4:1-12). Ruth and Boaz had a son named Obed, who became the grandfather of King David (Ruth 4:13-17). As an ancestor of David, Ruth is also mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:5). Her story exemplifies God's grace, providential care, and the inclusion of Gentiles in His plan of redemption.