Lessons From JonahShembull

On the Run “Jonah ran away from the Lord and headed for Tarshish . . . to flee from the Lord” (Jonah 1:3) Jonah ran from God and went the opposite way than God commanded. Often we make the story of Jonah about a big fish , but it’s actually about big forgiveness . What are you running from or worried about? Jonah’s story is our story too-minus being digested in the belly of a swimming taxi for three days. This story is about God going after Jonah and us to bring big forgiveness. When Jonah turned left toward the sea instead of turning right toward Nineveh, his heart must’ve yelled out, “I shouldn’t be doing this!” But he did. When has your conscience and faith yelled out, “I shouldn’t be doing this!” It often takes more work to avoid responsibility than fulfill it, yet you and I go the wrong way again and again. When we say, “I shouldn’t be doing this,” God says, “Then I’m going to do something.” God sent Jesus. Jesus didn’t take a wrong turn; he didn’t avoid responsibility. Jesus did what Jonah refused to do. Jesus marched right into this world, right into the hearts of those who are hurting, to bring peace. Truthfully confess, “God, I ran away from you. Please forgive me.” And He will. And He has. Why? The fury of God’s wrath over sin struck Jesus on the cross so that you are free, forgiven, and refocused in life.