Thursday 19 February 2026
When God saw what they did, how they turned from their evil ways, God changed his mind about the calamity that he had said he would bring upon them; and he did not do it. (v. 10)
Background
Today we turn to the story of Jonah, a short, four‑chapter book in the Old Testament about a reluctant and, at times, rather stubborn prophet. In the first two chapters, God calls Jonah to go to Nineveh and warn the people to turn from their evil ways. Jonah wants no part of this mission. Instead, he runs in the opposite direction, boarding a ship to escape God’s call. But God sends a violent storm, the ship is in danger, and eventually the sailors throw Jonah overboard. The storm immediately calms. Jonah is swallowed by a great fish sent by God, saving him from drowning. For three days he remains in the belly of the fish. During that time, he comes to his senses and prays, and the fish spits him out onto dry land.
God then calls Jonah a second time. This time Jonah obeys. He goes to Nineveh and proclaims God’s warning. The people listen, repent, and change their ways. We are told in verse 10, “When God saw what they did, how they turned from their evil ways, God changed his mind…” Tomorrow we will hear how Jonah responds to this outcome!
The story of Jonah and the Ninevites is a powerful reminder that God does not give up on us. One of the constants of God’s love is a willingness to forgive. Jonah ignored God and ran away; the people of Nineveh had lived wickedly. Yet God brings Jonah safely to shore and calls him again. Jonah faithfully walks through the city for three days, delivering God’s message. The people respond. Everyone from ordinary citizens to the king himself, who removes his royal robe and puts on sackcloth and ashes.
Both Jonah and the people of Nineveh experience the steady, patient love of God. A love that calls us back, offers second chances, and repeats the invitation to follow. In a world where mistakes are often magnified, criticised and never forgotten, we can give thanks for God’s merciful love: a love that does not dismiss us for our failings but continually calls us home.
To Ponder:
- When have you experienced the steady, patient love of God?
- Are there people who are beyond God’s forgiveness?
Prayer
God of mercy and second chances, thank you for never giving up on us. When we run from your call, when we resist or hesitate, still you seek us, protect us, and invite us to begin again. As you showed compassion to Jonah and forgiveness to the people of Nineveh, help us to trust in your patient love and to extend that same grace to others. Guide our steps today, draw us back when we wander, and keep teaching us the way of your mercy. Amen.
Bible notes author: The Revd David Hardman
David Hardman is currently serving as the Methodist Liaison Officer, Jerusalem for the Methodist Church in Britain. Ordained in 1994, he has served churches and circuits in the city centre and in the inner city and suburbs of Manchester and London. He has also worked for Christian Aid as Senior Regional Coordinator in the North West of England and most recently was the Methodist Team Leader of the Joint Public Issues Team. Justice and peace have been at the heart of David’s ministry; he is an accredited mediator with Place for Hope and a committed activist.