Jonah

God's ministry is often messy. Rather than a nice and tidy salvation, when we look to Calvary, what do we see? A very bloody Son; holy, divine, yet crucified. As His followers, we must learn not to box Him in, not to limit our understanding of what we think He can and can't do. If it were up to Jonah, would God have ever shown mercy to Nineveh? But if Jonah wishes away God's mercy, what becomes of the wayward prophet who should've been washed away? Join us for the final chapter of Jonah as we set out to live on God's merciful mission: the exposure of sin and the mercy that mends.

Last week was tough for many of us. Realizing the reality of God's sovereign control over wind and waves, over death and life, over sickness and health can be humbling and discouraging when you're in the thick of it. But, truth be told, there is no better backdrop to feel the sheer weight of His unmerited favor like that of His sovereign control of all things... things we'd consider good, and not so much. He loves to show mercy. He is long-suffering. He is patient. He desires that all should come to repentance, should live and enjoy Him. These are all super good things... all a part of His sovereign plan. None of us want what we deserve. All of us need what we could never deserve: the Lord! This isn't just a lesson for Jonah; it's one for all of us. May we, with Paul, affirm that "God causes all things to work together for good to those that love Him and are called according to His purpose." –Romans 8.28

Nothing brings a prodigal home like Sovereign storms. Going through any? Perhaps the Lord has called up His winds or seas to bash against the bows of your boat? What are we to do through thick and thin but turn to the Lord who "works all things together for good"? Come on down, down, down, down... with Jonah and be brought back up from the domain of death and darkness. If so, you'll be in some great company, and not just that of Jonah, either. Jesus, will you join us... to You to die daily and live eternally? Lead us through our storms by your Word and glory in and through the gospel of Jonah.