Listen

Jonah started into the city, walking one day, and he cried out, “Just forty days more and Nineveh will be overthrown!” And the people of Nineveh believed God. They proclaimed a fast and put on mourning clothes, from the greatest of them to the least significant.

God saw what they were doing—that they had ceased their evil behavior. So God stopped planning to destroy them, and he didn’t do it.

Jonah 3:4-5, 10

Think

When the early months of winter bring cold and darkness into my corner of the world, The Great British Bake Off brings some light and joy. Watching many seasons, I’ve learned that something unexpected always happens. My favorite baker gets eliminated. An unpromising baker creates a masterpiece. While I don’t always love the unexpected happenings, the surprises are essential.

Surprise, Jonah! The mortal enemies of your people change their ways and believe in God. Surprise, God! The people you planned to destroy worship you. Jonah’s calling to Nineveh results in something unexpected. Arrogance gives way to humility. Lack of remorse gives way to abundant repentance. Declarations of destruction become demonstrations of grace.

God’s calling for us may result in the unexpected. We will be surprised as the Holy Spirit opens closed doors, illuminates uncertain paths, and releases tight grips. We can choose to lament the unexpected or give thanks to God for calling us to receive and share the love that sets all of creation free.

Jennie Barber

Question to Ponder:

Has God ever led you to unexpected places or into surprising relationships? When God’s calling leads you to the unexpected, how do you respond?

Pray

Holy Wonder,

Liberate me from the ways I confine and define you.

Heal me from the choices that have confined and defined others.

Once again, surprise me with your tender mercy and amazing grace.

Amen.

Go

Listen with your whole self.

Listen with your ears as God’s voice comes through the unexpected.

Listen with your hands as you share and receive the Spirit’s gifts.

Listen with your heart as it beats to the rhythms of God’s love.

Listen with your feet as you walk with Jesus today.