God’s Message to Jonah: I Desire Mercy

God’s Message to Jonah: I Desire Mercy

S  ometimes the People of God Can Be Silly

The Book of Jonah is short, only four chapters long. It is worth reading alone, if you are willing to pay attention, and to be ready to laugh! This book is the telling of the story of a reluctant prophet. It makes great use of humor to underscore a serious point.

When we think of Jonah, we often think of his three days in the belly of a giant fish. But why was he the reluctant prophet? In a prior Gospel we hear, after the fish spit him out, he went on and preached in the city. He had tremendous success, as the city people listened to him. These people were warriors and conquerors, and people of terror. They were renowned for their terror and were enemies of Israel.

After his preaching and warning the people, Jonah climbs a nearby mountain to wait for the fireworks. He waits for the ultimate destruction of the city!…which never comes. He wants to see the overdue punishment of this wicked society. He waits the 40 days … camping out waiting for justice… to see what is done to these people. The sun beats down on Jonah, but he cannot go anywhere, awaiting the destruction of this city.

Listen to the end story of Jonah. Hear this Meditation Piece and why he is the reluctant prophet and witness the mercy of God.

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