Day 189 – Jonah: Theme
“This change of plans greatly upset Jonah, and he became very angry. So he complained to the Lord about it: “Didn’t I say before I left home that you would do this, Lord? That is why I ran to Tarshish! I knew that You are a merciful and compassionate God, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. You are eager to turn back from destroying people.” Johan 4:1-2 NLT
The book of Jonah tells the story of this prophet’s flight and how God stopped him and turned him around. It is much more than a story of a man and a great fish. It is a profound illustration of God’s mercy and grace. No one deserved God’s favour less than the people of Nineveh. Jonah knew this. But he also knew that God would forgive and bless them if they would turn from their sin and worship Him. He knew the power of God’s message – that even through his own weak preaching, the people might respond and be spared judgment.
The thing was, Jonah did not like the Assyrians, and he wanted vengeance, not mercy. Eventually, Jonah obeyed God and preached in the streets of Nineveh, and the people repented and were spared judgment. Jonah sulked and complained. God dealt with Jonah’s self-centred values and lack of compassion. Sometimes we are like Jonah. Not necessarily running in the opposite direction, but wanting our will more than God’s. Thinking we know better. God loves all people, even those we believe do not deserve His mercy. Our work is to be obedient and accepting of His will.
Prayer: Father, forgive me for the times I am self-centred and lacking compassion towards those I don’t think are deserving of Your mercy. Teach me Your will for the world and equip me to bring messages of repentance and deliverance, even if it is to my enemies. Amen.
