In the Field of Grace
The Book of Ruth is a touching Biblical account of piety and devotion, following a young widow who accompanied her mother-in-law into a strange land, adopting her religion and people. In the Field of Grace is a fleshed-out version of that account. Ruth is a young Moabite woman who is neglected by her own family but finds acceptance and love in Naomi’s household. She marries Naomi’s son, but her happiness is short-lived. Her husband dies. Devastated by the loss of her son, Naomi decides to return to her homeland, Judah. Ruth insists on accompanying her on the arduous journey. They arrive to a hard life of poverty. However, Ruth attracts the attention of Boaz, one of the wealthiest men in Judah. The romance that blossoms between them is the heart of the novel. This is Biblical romance, so the protagonists are very noble and sweet. In every conflict, they set wonderful examples to others around them. And yet, even though I was aware of being preached at, the message was so appropriate to the context of the story that it was not intrusive. This is a warm, inspiring love story and a beautiful retelling of Ruth.
