The next Old Testament book tells the story of a reluctant prophet named Jonah, sent by God to preach to Israel’s hated enemy, the Assyrians, in their capital city of Nineveh (760s-750s BC). It includes the memorable story of the prophet’s attempt to flee God’s call, only to end up carried by a huge fish to Assyria anyway. Jonah reveals that God’s mercy can extend even to Israel’s enemies, and (ironically) shows that pagans could sometimes repent eagerly – the very thing Israel failed to do!
In fact, whilst being carried by the huge fish we find Jonah praying “Saying, “I called out to the Lord, out of my distress, and he answered me; out of the belly of Sheol I cried, and you heard my voice.” (2:2)
One of the overarching messages from the Book of Jonah is compassion. Jonah was a prophet, and even though he had let God down in numerous ways, he was still forgiven because God showed him unlimited love and compassion. God also modelled forgiveness and mercy for Jonah in how God dealt with other people.
As long as serving God fit with Jonah’s goals for Israel, he was fine with God. As soon as he had to choose between the true God and the god he actually worshiped, he turned on the true God in anger. Jonah’s particular national identity was more foundational to his self-worth than his role as a servant of the God of all nations. The real God had been just a means to an end. He was using the God to serve his real god.
When it comes to God's will for our lives, we have three responsive options: ignore, obey, disobey. Too often, by default, we ignore God's will by not even seeking His will for our life. We become presumptuous and take pride in self rather than boast in His grace, provision, and will.
Why not sit quietly and contemplate this:-
As you go out into the world
Follow me
At home with your household
Follow me
At school and work
Follow me
In everything you do this week
Follow me
And as you do, remember that I am with you always,
even to the end of the world. Amen
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