Tuesday, September 15, 2026

Scripture

“[Jonah] prayed to the Lord and said, ‘… That is why I fled to Tarshish at the beginning; for I knew that you are a gracious God and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love, and ready to relent from punishing.’” Jonah 4:2

Reflections

Jonah had a problem.  He never really cared for the people of Ninevah.  Yet, those were the people the Lord God sent him to.  After trying to run away, he eventually relented and preached the word of the Lord God as he was called.  The people repented.  The whole city was saved.  You would think Jonah would have been thrilled.  Instead, you’re left with the feeling he wasn’t excited about what God was able to do through him.

If Jonah had his way, he would have avoided the Lord God’s call.  He would have remained indifferent.  The people of Ninevah would have brought about their own destruction.  He would have never seen what the Lord God can do.

The Lord God calls each of us to love people we may not like.  We may be tempted to live in the ways of this world, ignoring others in need.  But if we ignore them, how are they going to come to know the saving grace of Jesus Christ?  They need us.  They need to hear words of encouragement or guidance or correction.

Gratefully, the Lord God can still be at work through and in spite of us.

Prayer

Lord God, thank you for your calling upon my life.  Help me to see the good that you can accomplish through me and be grateful for it.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Full Reading: Jonah 3:10—4:11