BLESSED FRANCIS XAVIER SEELOS, PRIEST (OPTIONAL MEMORIAL)

The people of Nineveh believed God. 

The prophet Nahum called Nineveh “the bloody city, all lies, Full of plunder . . . A multitude of slain, a mass of corpses” (3:1, 3). The primary task of its king was to wage military campaigns, guided by Ashur, the Assyrian god of war. These were ruthless and destructive people living in a swiftly expanding empire. That’s an important consideration to keep in mind as we read the Book of Jonah because without it, we may not fully appreciate the story’s message: that God’s word has the power to change hearts and lives.

How do we know the focus is on God’s word and not on Jonah? Because Jonah wasn’t anyone special. Why would hardened warriors trust a stranger from out of town doling out unsolicited military advice? Jonah had no proof to back up his claims, and his words weren’t logical given Assyria’s military successes. What’s more, his message was not from Ashur or some other pagan god.

Still, when Jonah shouted out exactly what God had said—that the powerful city of Nineveh would be overthrown in forty days unless the people repented—they listened and changed (3:4-5). The king covered himself with sackcloth, sat in ashes, and called on everyone in the city to “turn from his evil way and from the violence he has in hand” (3:6, 8). He decreed a fast not just for the people but for the cattle and sheep as well (3:7). What an unexpected outcome!

At its core, the Book of Jonah reveals that the word of God, spoken by an ordinary person, is powerful and effective. It captures hearts. It converts sinners. It brings people to repentance. It doesn’t force its way; God’s word simply takes effect.

As you marvel at this, remember that God’s living and effective word is still powerful in and of itself today. So never discount the value of sharing Scripture with people. If God prompts you to speak his word to someone else, remember that it’s the message of God, not the messenger, that changes hearts and lives. Thank God for that!

“Father, give me the courage to speak your word.”

Psalm 130:1-4, 7-8
Luke 10:38-42
Jonah 3:1-10

WORD AMONG US