Jonah (…).
Throughout this short exploration of the book of Jonah, we have been confronted with the radical – and uncomfortable - nature of God as being full of compassion. If we are on the receiving end, it is quite lovely! But when we are charged to proclaim that mercy to others – at least some of whom we would prefer not be given the opportunity to hear it lest they repent! – it is a different story.
In a world in which we are weaponized against one another, Jonah calls us, in spite of himself, to learn compassion from God – and especially towards those we think, perhaps accurately, least deserving of it. If we are going to be at all useful in partnering with God to save the world, it is a lesson needing to be learned.
By Bill Dogterom
Nineveh repents.
As we dive into Jonah chapter 3, we find a reluctant prophet carrying a very short message to his enemies in Nineveh.
In this talk, we explore a few questions together: What does it mean for us that the whole capital city of such a brutal empire responded so spectacularly to God’s invitation (even to include the animals!)? What’s with all the mourning clothes and ashes? And what does “repentance” even mean, for our context? What is the Spirit of God inviting us to, and how can we join him?
By Nelly D'Alessandro
Jonah repents (kind of).
Everybody loves a redemption arc, and it's tempting to try to give one to Jonah by the end of Chapter 2. But has Jonah really had a change of heart, or just a change of mind?
After a series of chaotic events, the action in our story hits a complete halt. 3 days and 3 nights of silence. Darkness. Leaving Jonah alone with his thoughts, and with his God. Not only has Jonah run physically from where God called him to be, he has traveled spiritually to the depths of Sheol.
In this talk, we explore Jonah's prayer inside the belly of the fish, and what it shows us about Jonah's heart. Jonah might not be ready to love his enemies, but he is ready to recognize how his path was leading him to death and God' faithfulness through it. He is finally ready to obey, albeit through clenched teeth.
By Tavia Grubbs
Jonah flees.
In this series introduction to Jonah, we explore how to approach such a small but formidable prophetic book, along with the historical context of the story.
The story of Jonah asks us to take seriously the outrageously scandalous grace of God and the ways (with Jonah) we may find ourselves running from His presence. All throughout chapter 1, we find Jonah doing exactly the opposite of what we’d expect; and, as we follow along, let us consider our own instincts in responding to the painful invitations from God toward our individual “Ninevahs.”
By Nelly D'Alessandro