Jonah 3:5,10
“When God saw what they did, how they turned from their evil ways, God changed his mind about the calamity that he had said he would bring upon them; and he did not do it.” vs. 10
Love changed God’s mind about the fate of Nineveh. Jonah didn’t much care about God’s decision but anyone who has loved from the heart will understand. When someone for whom we care deeply returns from the dark side we will open our arms and our hearts to embrace and forgive. It happens again and again. Unfaithful spouses return and marriages are restored. Disobedient children run off to see where evil dwells and when when they come back we tend to their wounds and welcome them home. Often there will have been threats and promises of vengeance…but all that is forgotten for the sake of love. What a gift it is to be able to change our minds and go back on our word! And what a blessing this little story is! If God’s mind can be changed it’s surely a possibility for us. We don’t have to do what we’ve threatened to do or levy heavy punishments on those who have hurt us. Mercy is one of the sweetest gifts that we can offer one another in times of crisis or need…and to know that mercy and not vengeance is at the very heart of God’s being is perhaps the greatest blessing of all.
Thought for the Day: When am I likely to change my mind?
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