Day 23 – Jonah 1: 1-3

Some time ago a much respected minister led a weekend workshop at our church based on the Holy Spirit. On the Saturday evening he said to me, “Steve, I think it’s about time you gave a word of testimony. How about tomorrow’s service?” “Who me?” I said, “I don’t think that would be right, I’m way too much a sinner.” “That’s ok,” he said, “join the club.”

If we are honest, we would probably all say we are part of that club. As Paul says in Romans 3: 23 “For all have sinned and fall short of the Glory of God,” Jonah had a clear directive from God to go to Ninevah and preach His word to them. He chose, however, to run away and disobey God. And what about Paul? In Romans 7, fully aware of what he should be doing, he chooses to do the exact opposite. “What a wretched man I am. Who will save me from this body of death? Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord.”

So we are all in the same boat as it were. The good news is that Jonah got a second chance to take the right path, the one that God wanted him to take. Jonah overcame his fear, went to Ninevah, preached the word of God, and, as a result, God’s people were saved. We too can follow in the footsteps of Jonah. Even if we think we are not good enough, even if we are afraid sometimes, God is there for us and helps us as we step out in faith for Him.

So come and join the club and as children of God, redeemed by the blood of Jesus on the cross (Romans 3: 24-25), let us press on together to share the hope that is within us.

Lord, help me to discern your will for my life and grant me the strength and faith to step out and live my life for You now and always. Amen.

by Stephen Collinson
South East Northumberland Ecumenical Area (SENEA)
Local Preacher & Safeguarding Trainer