It’s one of the most classic Bible stories known by believers and non-believers alike. It’s the story of Jonah and the whale. Yet, while some may laugh and others marvel, God uses this divine story to share a life-changing message. We may start the story as observers, but we end it rooting for Jonah and seeing ourselves in this imperfect and most unlikely hero. Jonah is called to go to an enemy city and tell them to repent, or God will destroy them. He runs from God’s instruction because he doesn’t want to go to an enemy city, plus it will be a bonus if they are destroyed. While on the ship, God sends a storm that results in Jonah being tossed into the sea, where a great fish swallows him. Three days later, he is vomited onto land and decides to do what God said. To his dismay, the city repents, and he goes up a hill to sulk. It’s here in the searing sun after his small tree dies that he complains to God. God replies – “Nineveh has more than 120,000 people living in spiritual darkness, not to mention all the animals. Shouldn’t I feel sorry for such a great city?” (Jonah 4:11). The story finishes with an unanswered question. A question we must answer. “You are weak and a failure, but I love you and work with you. Shouldn’t I do the same for those you consider unworthy?” How is God calling you to be an unlikely hero(ine)? Open Bible – https://bit.ly/jon4v11
