The threshing floor was quiet under the stars. Ruth crept in as Boaz lay down by the grain pile. His cloak shifted with the wind, his breaths deep and steady.
Ruth knelt, uncovered his feet, and lay down.
At midnight, Boaz stirred. "Who are you?" he asked, startled.
"I am your servant, Ruth," she said. "Spread the corner of your garment over me, for you are a guardian-redeemer."
There was a long silence, and then… a smile.
"The Lord bless you, my daughter," he said. "You have shown kindness, not chasing after the younger men. And now, don't be afraid. I will do for you all you ask. Everyone knows you are a woman of noble character."
Boaz sat up. "There is another redeemer nearer than I. If he is willing, good. But if not—as surely as the Lord lives—I will redeem you."
He gave her six measures of barley. "Don't go back to Naomi empty-handed."
Reflection:
"You are not forgotten. Even in silence, God is working on your behalf."
—Isaiah 64:4