In my recent, daily, Bible readings the writer of the notes has drawn on events recorded in the book of Jonah. Two comments attracted my attention and I share them for your consideration.
“The Assyrians were evil and violent and that was their way of life. As a conquering empire, they had a reputation for cruelty and viciousness. “
“That is why Jonah didn’t want to go to Nineveh in the first place! The Lord, however, is not the God of just one people group. He’s the God of all nations. Somehow, He’d been at work in the hearts of the Ninevites so that they were ready to repent after Jonah arrived”.
The first comment reminded me of some areas in the world today, and to some extent in a limited way, in our country. How easy it would be to despair at the evil we hear about. But the second comment encourages hope even if we may not see much evidence. However, a recent news item informs that the son of the man who started one of the evil organisations operating in the Middle East has “converted from Islam to Christianity”. He currently lives in the USA warning people of the dangers of his father’s occupation and the organisation he founded. The God who confronted Saul of Tarsus is still at work today.
One of our daily prayer guides informs of its radio work and is one of many involved in broadcasting the Good News and attracting listeners because it includes health and social care advice. Many hymns include phrases to encourage us to trust God and if we ever feel a sense of despair, may God remind us of such phrases to strengthen our trust in Him.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, as we listen to the media there is much to make us fearful, but we ask for Your indwelling Power to reassure us and enhance our trust in You. AMEN