Daily EncouragementSample

“Even now” - the phrase suggests a desperate situation, whether we consider the immediate judgement, which had come upon Joel’s hearers in the shape of an invasion of locusts and serious drought, or we think of the impending judgement on “the day of the Lord” which is the burden of this prophecy. The outlook is anything but bright: “the day of the Lord is coming . . . a day of darkness and gloom, a day of clouds and blackness” (verses 1-2).

“Even now” - the phrase is nevertheless a word of hope. Judgement is deserved, is being experienced and can be expected, yet there is hope - “The day of the Lord is great; it is dreadful. Who can endure it? ‘Even now,’ declares the Lord, ‘return to me with all your heart.’”

“Even now” - the phrase is a word of encouragement for any who feel that the state of the Lord’s people and of the Lord’s work has almost reached the point where nothing but judgement can be expected. Let them not despair. “Even now” there is hope, if God’s call to return is heeded. But it must be a wholehearted return. “Rend your heart and not your garments” (verse 13). And it must affect all the people, elders and children alike, and particularly those “who minister before the Lord” (verse 16-17).