The story of Jonah is one that has captured hearts and imaginations over the centuries. What isn't in it? Storms. Being thrown overboard. Being swallowed up by a fish. Being spit up by the same fish.
But while we often focus on Jonah and the fish, really this is a story about Jonah and God. And the people of Ninevah and God.
What often isn't thought about in this story is that Jonah, this prophet of God who is supposed to be so close to the heart of God that he is trusted with an important message, certainly doesn't share the heart of God. If the heart of God is one of love, mercy, compassion and grace - Jonah's is one of trying to decide who is worthy of what God is offering.
The thing about the story of Jonah is that a lot of us can see ourselves in it. In the running away. But we don't take time to examine our hearts to ask the really hard question if we are trying to limit God's love towards other people.
What is disheartening about the end of Jonah is that he isn't as repentant as the people of Ninevah. Yes, he repented of running away, but he never really repented about what he was holding in his heart.
What about us? What do we need to repent of this day?
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