Let's look at Ruth 4:3-4 "Then he said to the close relative, "Naomi, who has come back from the country of Moab, sold the piece of land which belonged to our brother Elimelech. And I thought to inform you, saying, 'Buy it back in the presence of the inhabitants and the elders of my people. If you will redeem it, redeem it; but if you will not redeem it, then tell me, that I may know; for there is no one but you to redeem it, and I am next after you.' “And he said, "I will redeem it."
Notice his quick response here - "And he said, "I will redeem it." Hey this sounds like a good investment. Being a large property owner would enhance his reputation and position in Bethlehem as well as increase his profits each year. So this sounds like good news to him. However, Boaz goes on to tell him about Ruth in verses 5-6. You could almost see him back-peddling here. Verse six - "I cannot redeem it for myself, lest I ruin my own inheritance. You redeem my right of redemption for yourself, for I cannot redeem it." It is ironic that he was concerned about losing his inheritance and yet his name is not even mentioned in scripture - it says "the close relative", his name, family and inheritance are forgotten. Boaz was willing to be the kinsman-redeemer and we see his name written in scripture and held in honor.
My friend, Jesus Christ is our kinsman-redeemer. He wasn't concerned about jeopardizing His own inheritance; instead, He made us a part of His inheritance (Ephesians 1:11,18). Thank you Lord for the sacrifice you paid on my behalf.
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