Tough and Tender
| Boaz replied, "I've been told all about what you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband--how you left your father and mother and your homeland and came to live with a people you did not know before. 12 May the LORD repay you for what you have done. May you be richly rewarded by the LORD, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge." (Ruth2:11-12) |
What absolute rubbish!
Insensitivity isn't a manly trait - plain and simply it's a cowardly and lazy lack of thoughtful connection!
Boaz isn't merely chatting up a pretty girl - his words are thoughtfully chosen on the basis of conclusions he has reached by considering the facts and putting himself in her shoes. He has reflected on the challenges she has faced and thoughtfully articulates the sacrifices she has made and the risks she has taken and commends her and pronounces blessing on her.
Was it effective?
Listen to her response: "You have given me comfort and have spoken kindly to your servant..."
Men have a reputation for being insensitive - the truth is that most insensitivity has very little to do with gender and everything to do with laziness. Being sensitive to the needs of others requires that we put ourselves in their shoes and try to understand where they are and how they feel and to connect to them and offer encouraging words of solidarity and comfort.
Boaz is a successful man - a farmer, a boss and a respected clansman. In the culture of the day he could have treated Ruth like chattel - she needed him much more than he needed her. Instead, he treats her with dignity and respect and with thoughtful sensitivity. In these actions he reflects the nature of the One who doesn't break bent reeds and snuff out smouldering wicks.
Go figure...!
