Ruth stays beside Naomi
Ruth 1–2; 4:13–17 · Retold for children
A hard goodbye
Naomi was returning to Bethlehem after deep sadness in her family. Her daughter-in-law Ruth wanted to stay with her, even though the journey meant leaving home.
I will go with you
Ruth told Naomi that she would go where Naomi went. They reached Bethlehem at the beginning of the barley harvest. They needed food and a new beginning.
Kindness in a field
Ruth gathered leftover grain in a field belonging to Boaz. Boaz heard about her kindness to Naomi. He made sure Ruth could work safely and have enough to eat.
A place to belong
Ruth kept caring for Naomi. In time, Ruth and Boaz married and had a son, Obed. Naomi’s neighbours celebrated the love and new hope in their family.