Thoughts for another day

June 28, 2007

Today's verse: Jonah 1:3. But Jonah rose up to flee unto Tarshish from the presence of the LORD… (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)

You might recall this reflection yesterday wherein we had read that there is a purpose God has for us. Now, if you read the book of Jonah, you realize that God had a purpose for him too. It is intriguing how this book in the face of acute Jewish indulgence finds mention in the Bible. Intriguing because, God calls Jonah to preach repentance to the people of Nineveh who were the archenemies of Israel. Yet it can be viewed as an example for the Jews to follow when they learn about how the Ninevites repented and received pardon from God.

Coming to the above verse, we find Jonah running away from the appointed task in the opposite direction and we see later how God brings him back to fulfill the purpose to go and complete the mission. This book is indeed very interesting; giving us fodder for reflection on God’s work in various situations and making us understand the quality of His mercy for man. While I would love to go on about this book for the sheer beauty of our Father’s deep compassion for every human being, our purpose is to look at the verse we have been given today which in itself tells us that our grappling with God should not be to cross-purposes.

It is delightful to be chosen by Him to accomplish His tasks. Running away from it will only ensure that much misery will come your way. Let me tell you, if you have received some calling from Him and you are trying to shirk it or thinking you are not up to it, then remember God will be displeased. If you feel you are not up to it, remember, He is the One who will accomplish it. He doesn’t need your sufficiency He, is enough. My friend, accept the calling of God in your life with great joy. For the purposes of God are eternal and effuse with love. Through you He can save those who are in the throes of hell-fire. Fulfill His purposes and you can rest assured that your reward in heaven will be great.