Jonah prepares to flee to Tarshish, far from the presence of the Lord (Jonah 1: 3)
Why do people run away from God? Is it anger, disappointment, hopelessness, disobedience, or the web of rebellion woven from one's own desires?
The book of Jonah tells a story about a prophet who refused a call from God to speak His word to the people of Nineveh. In the first chapter (verses 3.10), we read that Jonah purposely went to Tarshish to escape God. He knew exactly where he was going, and why. After being given a second chance (3:1,2), Jonah also delivered God's message, but he responded angrily when God took pity on the repentant city (3:10-4:2).
The book ends with a conversation between God and Jonah about His mercy: “How shall I not love Nineveh” (4:11). However, there is no sign that the grumbling prophet changed his behavior. The people of Nineveh repented, but Jonah did not.
Jonah's story should make us honest about our feelings towards God. Do we harbor resentment at His generosity toward those we think deserve punishment? Have we forgotten that God has forgiven us? Are we ready to obey His call and entrust the results to Him?
Jonah's story highlights our reaction to God and measures our willingness to trust Him when we can't understand His ways --DCM
THE ONE WHO LOVES GOD MOST IS THE ONE WHO TRUST HIM THE MOST
*) Take From Daily Meditation