Jonah 3:1-10 / Luke 11:29-32
When something unexpected happens, we may think of it as an exceptional occurrence.
More so when it cannot be explained logically or reasonably, we may just keep it aside and continue to ponder on it.
Although it may not be able to be understood logically or reasonably, but if it is wonderful and heart-warming, then we will attribute it to the workings of God.
Yes, when God works wonders, we will know that it is not the work or the abilities or the efforts of man, but it is from the hand of God.
In the 1st reading, the conversion of the Ninevites was unexpected and beyond human reasoning.
What is even more astounding is that from the king right down to the animals, all did penance and fasting for their sins.
Certainly it was not because of Jonah, because Jonah himself was skeptical that the Ninevites would repent.
In fact, he had secretly wished for them to be punished because of the horrors they did to God’s people.
But the conversion of the Ninevites was so amazing that it can be none other than the work of God.
Only God can change hearts and minds.
During this time of Lent, let us have the hope that those who commit wicked and evil deeds will repent, and we must pray for them.
We also pray for ourselves that God will open our minds and hearts to see the wonders that He will show us so that we will know that our God is merciful and compassionate.