Boaz answered, "I have heard about everything that you have done for your mother-in-law since your husband died. I know how you left your father and mother and your own country and how you came to live among a people you had never known before. May the LORD reward you for what you have done. May you have a full reward from the LORD God of Israel, to whom you have come for protection!"

Ruth answered, "You are very kind to me, sir. You have made me feel better by speaking gently to me, even though I am not the equal of one of your servants."

Ruth 2:11-13

In the book of Ruth we read that Boaz greeted his workers by saying, "The LORD be with you!" and the workers would respond with, "The LORD bless you."

So how do you welcome people every morning, with a sharp word or a soft comment of confidence and support?

A heartfelt greeting can energize the weary

and encourage the lonely.

Our Daily Bread – November 14, 2002