by John O’Malley
“Wash thyself therefore, and anoint thee, and put thy raiment upon thee, and get thee down to the floor: but make not thyself known unto the man, until he shall have done eating and drinking” (Ruth 3:3).
Naomi, who wore the crown of wisdom that comes solely from length of days, shared with Ruth the summary of God’s goodness in one word: “therefore.” This is the first time in this book the word is used, and thus it should be worthy of mention in its placement and to its purpose. This word generally points to a rehearsal of the facts, emotions, and ideas just presented. It leads its listener to a decision.
Naomi’s message was intended to lead Ruth to a place of decision. She wanted Ruth to see it was the right time to take the next step on God’s path of provision. It was God’s hand that made this plain path for Ruth to follow. The path that left Moab led straight to the heart of Boaz. Neither woman knew it at the time, but Naomi, one who knew what it was to have God’s fullest blessing, now spoke words to help Ruth make a decision.
Naomi’s “therefore” in the midst of her instructions to Ruth showed her that, since these facts existed, and since God’s hand had led her thus far, it was time to take the next step. Ruth had stepped out of Moab and into becoming a maiden. Now it was time for Ruth to step from being a maiden into being a mother in the line of the Messiah.
Naomi’s “therefore” in verse three rehearses Ruth’s promise (3:1). Naomi’s question, “Shall I not seek rest for thee?” was to remind Ruth of the reward of her promise. Ruth’s promise, made to Naomi on Naomi’s pilgrimage of hope, now has found its reward.
Naomi’s “therefore” in verse three reviews Ruth’s position (3:2). Boaz was a kinsman to Naomi. This familial relationship provided to Ruth an occupation and an opportunity to restore her husband’s name. Ruth had worked in Boaz’s field; this familiarity gave them an awareness of the sovereign hand of God in their lives.
Naomi’s “therefore” in verse three reminds Ruth of his proximity (3:2). Boaz was working that night in the threshing floor. He was working with the very grains of the harvest with which Ruth had worked. His heart was focused on the winnowing, and her heart was focused on the winnower.
Naomi knew this was the time for this determined heart to find delight again. Because God had led Ruth to this place,“therefore” it was time for her to prepare to present herself to Boaz. My reading Friend, we too should take Naomi’s “therefore” to Ruth, and rehearse the goodness of our Eternal Boaz and prepare to meet Him.