I read thru the first book of Jonah this morning. Its a quick read. Really quick. But, the movie in my head is pretty extensive here. My movie is a mix between a dramatic water scene, not unlike the Clash of the Titans, and Veggie tales. (I've seen the Jonah story with Larry the Cucumber)
There's a lot in this first chapter.
1. God sent Jonah to Nineveh. This idea just keeps pounding me. God sends us. He works thru us to create his will and sometimes miracles. Every night before bed, the boys pray for the poor, and the less fortunate. I've had stronger and stronger feeling that I need to help them understand that WE are the hands and feet and if those people are going to be taken care of, its because of our actions.
2. Its crazy to think that you can run from God. If you believe he is the Creator, and God of everything.....then to think you could run seems really short-sighted. Jonah is a little loopey.....because.
3. When pushed to the edge, Jonah admits its him that is causing the problem, and volunteers to be thrown overboard. Is this really worse than going to Nineveh in the first place? Maybe thats short sighted on my part. But, if you're willing to be thrown inot the sea, where you are SURE to die.....why wouldn't you be willing to go to Nineveh, where there a multiple possible outcomes. Only some of the outcomes are bad (like being slapped with fish. Veggie tales reference)
Its seems silly to think this way. But, at the same time, we have all run from the things we know God is asking us to do........I've done it.
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I always enjoy the movie in your head put down on 'paper'! Yeah, you read this and think he's crazy for running from God but then as you point out we all do it too and we don't think we are crazy. Maybe Jonah's story is so big and in our face with craziness for the purpose of making us reflect on ourselves just like you did and realize our own craziness. I like your point too the boys, praying for others is great but what am I doing to help others?
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Knut