From Bitter to Sweet, by John Currid

The book of Ruth is a lovely moment in the Old Testament. We love the book because it is short - you can easily read it in me sitting. We love it because it's very dramatic - who can forget Orpah's farewell and Ruth's defiant clinging to Naomi ? Who can forget the night-time scene at the threshing floor or the happy ending as Obed is dandled on Naomi's knees. We love it because it's a very human story, of economic disaster, of migrant workers, of loss, of love, of resolutions and happy endings.

But does it mean anything for me ? And what about sandals, corners of mantles, uncovered feet and kinsman-redeemers ? What's that all about ?

John Currid's little commentary is a great book. He obviously has a huge affection for the characters, he's keen to vindicate them wherever he can. He explains customs and traditions to help the reader understand. He situates the story within Biblical history. He doesn't see Boaz as a type of Christ, but he sees the great purpose of the book as showing how God kept his promise to send the redeemer, and how therefore we can and must hope, speak, believe and live as the heirs of the promise. He illustrates lavishly, with lots of references to the Covenanters and the Puritans. And he helps preachers. Lots.

What more could anyone ask ?