How the Redeemer Brings Love, Purpose, and Hope

He shall be to you a restorer of life and a nourisher of your old age, for your daughter-in-law who loves you, who is more to you than seven sons, has given birth to him.Ruth 4:15How will this child be a restorer of life and a nourisher of Naomi's old age?The redeemer brings love. “Your daughter-in-law who loves you, who is more to you than seven sons, has given birth to him” (4:15). The women are saying, “Naomi, the love and loyalty your daughter-in-law has shown to you is better than you could have hoped for in seven sons! And this little boy will love you too. His love will renew your life and nourish your old age.”The redeemer brings purpose. “Naomi took the child and laid him on her lap and became his nurse” (4:16). When you lose someone, you may find yourself wondering why you are still here. Your life was tied up with your loved one. What purpose is there for you now? You are still here because God has work for you to do (Eph. 2:10). Naomi finds a new sense of purpose and calling. There is something for her to do and she gives herself to it with joy.The redeemer brings hope. “Blessed be the LORD, who has not left you this day without a redeemer” (4:14). When Naomi’s sons died, it seemed that there was no future, but God did not leave Naomi without a redeemer. Boaz secured the inheritance, and now, through Ruth, Boaz has continued the family line.The story that began with Naomi’s loss, ends with Naomi’s gain. Yes, Naomi has suffered greatly. But God has not left her without a redeemer. She is loved. She has hope. And God has work for her to do.Has a great loss left you wondering why you are still here? Ask God to show you the purpose He still has for you.