StorytellerIhe Atụ

Thousands of years ago, the Ninevites were basically the jerks of the world stage. Ancient history is littered with rueful tales of their horrific, violent actions. God Himself said they were so broken and evil they couldn’t tell their right from their left. In other words, they couldn’t even tell right from wrong. No wonder Jonah turned and ran in the opposite direction when God told him to go to the Ninevites and preach their destruction. But after Jonah had his own grace trip in the belly of a giant fish, he did, in fact, go to Nineveh. He told them to turn from their wicked ways and turn to God’s goodness instead. And they did! The people of Nineveh were sorry they had been so sinful and rejoiced at the opportunity to be forgiven. And then this happened: “When God saw what they did and how they turned from their evil ways, he relented and did not bring on them the destruction he had threatened” (Jonah 3:10). God forgave. That’s God’s heart. No matter how far gone a person is, God wants to forgive. And that’s something we can all receive.

As you close this week, read the story of Jonah and the Ninevites. As you do, note how you see God extend grace and forgiveness to those involved. And remember, that same grace and forgiveness is for you, too!