The lesson of Jonah is often all about the whale.
Okay, make that a big fish, as the Bible is vague on the creature that consumed the prophet, but the three days in the fish’s belly is indisputable.
That’s the story we remember from our youth, that Jonah was eaten by the whale. Yucko, we think. Jonah was a real goofus. He should have just done the right thing.
Well, that’s just it. Jonah did, eventually. The Bible tells us so.
Let’s look at 3 Times Jonah Got It Right.
The 1st Time Jonah Got It Right:
When Jonah’s life (and his poor choices) spiraled out of control, Jonah turned to the only one who could rescue him from his dire situation.
Jonah 2:2 says: “I called out to the Lord, out of my distress, and he answered me; out of the belly of Sheol I cried, and you heard my voice.”
The 2nd Time Jonah Got It Right:
Jonah’s flawed choices gave us the archetypal scenario that would one day echo Jesus’ three days in the grave.
Matthew 12:40 says: “For just as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the great fish, so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.”
The 3rd Time Jonah Got It Right:
Jonah recognized God’s redeeming character extended even to those Jonah disliked.
Jonah 4:2 says: “… For I knew that you are a gracious God and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love, and relenting from disaster.”
We are more like Jonah than not. Often, we wait until we can no longer manage our situation before turning to God.
God wants to be our first choice. Christ died for our sins – and those of our enemies – everyone, even the people we dislike. He doesn’t discount anyone from his offer of salvation.
It took Jonah three days to come to his senses. How long will it take us?
Let’s spread the good news. Christ is risen, and he offers salvation today.
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