Jonah found himself in need of salvation as he was in the perils of the ocean. God, in His mercy, sent a huge fish to swallow Jonah and keep him safe within its belly for three days and three nights. It was inside of the fish that Jonah recognized God was his only means of rescue. Without God, Jonah was doomed. Though he understood that God had rescued him, it did not translate to a sense remorse for his failing to go to the Ninevites, only gratitude for his personal fortune. Eventually, the fish vomited Jonah onto dry land, which gave him a chance to respond correctly to God’s initial command. God is a God of second, third, and fourth chances—not just for Jonah and the Israelites but for everyone. The same opportunity for repentance and redirection is available to us all.

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As Jonah marched into Nineveh to proclaim the message given to him, it was clear he was doing it reluctantly. But even in our reluctant faith, God can accomplish His will. He can and will work through anything in order to reach those who are far from Him. The Ninevites repented when they heard Jonah’s message. The response that took place was shocking. It was the kind of response that most prophets would long for—a quick and speedy turning. It demonstrated that, whether we willingly or reluctantly share the good news of Jesus, it can result in salvation. It is not for us to pick and choose who should be offered forgiveness. It is our job to scatter the seed, and it is up to God to produce the crop. When it comes to sharing our faith, we must learn to expect the unexpected.

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