by John O’Malley
“Then said Boaz unto Ruth…drink of that which the young men have drawn” (Ruth 2:8-9).
The servants of Boaz had a new assignment from him. The assignment involved Boaz’s newest gleaner, Ruth. The servants were to draw out water and permit Ruth to have it for her refreshing. Though this would not be the usual and customary method for gleaners to have refreshment, Boaz delighted in meeting Ruth’s needs exceedingly and abundantly above all she could even ask or think.
The obedient act of his servants in drawing water for this weary worker must not be overlooked. Ruth, though weary from the fields, would have full access to the vessels, water, and servants assigned to this task. Caring servants, responsible for the water, would be able to spot the weary one on her way to the water and could have it ready for her refreshing upon her arrival.
Servants of the Eternal Boaz, look around you today. Nearby, there may be a weary Ruth that needs refreshing. You may say, “I have not been given that command.” Or you may say, “I am too busy today to even take the time to think of refreshing a believer.”
Please take this then as a gentle reminder from God’s Word. Jesus said that we should wash one another’s feet. Are we too busy to provide refreshing for weary workers? Our Lord lived thirty-three years upon this earth, and He took the time to refresh His fellow workers. Should we not?
Foot washing is not a literal duty today, nor is it to be viewed as a third church ordinance. It is a command for the servants of the Eternal Boaz to refresh workers and not neglect the needs of a weary Ruth around us.
Have you ever encountered a weary worker of God? You may see them in church or out in public. You may have noticed that they look a little weary in their well doing. Do not forget to look to the mission field where your missionaries serve our Eternal Boaz. Do their shoulders look drooped? Are their heads hanging simply a little?
You are a servant of the Eternal Boaz. Rise up, get the refreshing water of the Word of God, and find a way to bring them this water. A letter, phone call, or even a visit will refresh a weary worker and will renew his soul.
As servants of Boaz, let us be mindful of His servants and their needs. Determine today to find a weary worker and encourage them!