Bible Reading: The Book of Jonah

A Big Fish and an Even Bigger Mercy

God asked the prophet Jonah to go to the great city of Nineveh.

“Tell the people to turn away from hurting others and begin living with kindness and justice.”

But Jonah did not want to go. He thought the people of Nineveh did not deserve God’s mercy.

So Jonah ran the other way!

He boarded a ship, hoping to get as far away as possible.

Soon a fierce storm swept across the sea. The sailors were frightened and prayed for help.

Jonah realized he could not run from God. When he was thrown into the sea, the storm became calm.

Then God sent a great fish to rescue Jonah.

For three days and three nights, Jonah stayed inside the fish. There he prayed and remembered that God never gives up on people.

The fish gently carried Jonah back to dry land.

This time, Jonah obeyed God.

He traveled to Nineveh and shared God’s message. The people listened. They stopped their violence, turned toward kindness, and changed their ways.

God showed them mercy.

Jonah became upset because he wanted God to punish them.

But God gently reminded Jonah that God’s love is for everyone—even people we find difficult to love.

God cares about every person and wants everyone to have the chance to choose compassion, justice, and peace.

What Can We Learn?

God’s mercy is bigger than our anger. God invites everyone to change, grow, and begin again. We are called to celebrate when people choose love over harm.

Love Like Francis and Clare

Think of someone who is different from you or someone with whom you’ve had a disagreement. Pray that they will know God’s love, and if you can, offer them kindness.

Prayer

Dear God,

Thank You for Your never-ending mercy. Help us forgive, welcome others, and remember that Your love is wide enough for everyone.

Amen.

Remember This Verse

“The Lord is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.” — Psalm 145:8