(story told in the book of Jonah)
Jonah was a prophet called by God to deliver a message to the city of Nineveh, a place known for its wickedness. God told Jonah to warn the people that their city would be destroyed unless they turned from their evil ways. But Jonah didn’t want to go—he disliked the Ninevites and didn’t think they deserved God’s mercy. Instead of obeying, Jonah ran in the opposite direction, boarding a ship to flee from God’s call.
As Jonah sailed away, God sent a violent storm that threatened to sink the ship. The terrified sailors cried out to their gods, but nothing helped. Jonah realized the storm was his fault and told them to throw him overboard. As soon as they did, the sea became calm. Then, God sent a great fish to swallow Jonah, saving him from drowning. Inside the fish for three days and nights, Jonah prayed and repented, thanking God for His mercy.
After the fish spit him out onto dry land, Jonah finally obeyed God’s command. He went to Nineveh and warned the people to repent. To his surprise, they listened! From the king to the poorest citizen, everyone turned from their sins, and God spared the city.
Instead of rejoicing, Jonah grew angry that God had shown mercy. He sat outside the city, sulking, until God used a plant—and then a scorching wind—to teach him compassion.
Jonah’s story reminds us that God’s mercy is bigger than our prejudice and anger. He loves all people and wants everyone to turn from sin and find forgiveness. Even when we run from Him, God patiently calls us back to His purpose.