At this, she bowed down with her face to the ground. She asked him, “Why have I found such favor in

your eyes that you notice me—a foreigner?” (Ruth 2:10)

We are naturally attracted to people who seem to be like us. For example, church congregations are

very often characterized by a single race, similar socio-economic level, a common age-level, or worship-

style preference. I must admit that I normally feel uncomfortable being in the minority in any social

setting. But this is not what we should expect in our heavenly home, where there will be a great

diversity of saints.

Ruth was from the land of Moab, a neighboring nation of Israel situated along the eastern border of the

Dead Sea. During most of Israel’s history, the Moabites were Israel’s enemies. Ruth married Mahlon,

one of the two sons of Elimelech and Naomi. After emigrating from Judah to Moab, Elimelech and the

two sons died, leaving Naomi and the sons’ two wives as widows. While Orpah, Ruth’s sister-in-law,

chose to remain in her native land of Moab when Naomi decided to return to Judah, Ruth insisted on

staying with Naomi.

By going with Naomi to Bethlehem in Judah, Ruth was showing her loyalty and love for her mother-in-

law, Naomi. She could have remained in Moab, returned to her mother’s home, and eventually

remarried. But her decision to stay with Naomi also revealed her decision to make Naomi’s people -- the

Israelites – to be her people and the God of Israel to be her God.

None of this escaped the notice of Boaz, who recognized the great sacrifice Ruth was making to

immigrate to Judah. So, he was determined to show his admiration for Ruth by extending exceedingly

great kindness to her. Despite her being a Moabitess, he now considered Ruth to be like one of them.

Boaz's inclusivity challenges cultural norms and reminds us of God's desire for inclusivity within His

family. As followers of Christ, we are called to embrace a love that transcends cultural and societal

boundaries.

Ruth's story challenges us to examine our own hearts. Are we embracing God’s plan of diversity, or are

there prejudices that hinder genuine love? The foreignness of Ruth did not deter Boaz from showing

kindness and favor. Similarly, God calls us to see beyond external differences and to love one another as

members of His diverse family.

God's inclusivity is evident in His redemptive plan for humanity. He invites people from every nation,

tribe, and tongue into His family. Ruth's story teaches us that love knows no cultural or ethnic bounds.

As we follow Christ, may our hearts be open to all, recognizing the inherent value in each person.

By Jim Connell

Jim is the founder and retired director of Lexington Rescue Mission and the author of

JesusIsLordBlog.com.