How do we react?

The readings today probe us – how do we react to God’s messages? In the first reading, we see Jonah being God’s voice to tell the people to repent (see related reflection http://mysimplereflection.blogspot.com/2012/01/call.html). Then in the gospel we see Jesus saying that we should repent because of Him. Jonah was enough for the people of Nineveh. Jesus, who is greater than Jonah, should be more than enough for us.

Sometimes, instead of repenting and reacting properly, we try to have things our way. We try to escape from God. May we be inspired by the people of Nineveh and repent wholeheartedly. They did not ask for a sign, like the sun to dance or that Jonah come down from heaven with angels carrying him. They did not think of escaping, of moving to another city to escape God’s punishment. They did not defend their actions, saying that other people are doing worse. They believed God and his message through Jonah. They proclaimed a fast, repented, and put on sackcloth. They were deeply sorry, and God spared them.

What do I need to repent of in my life? What things do I need to change? Am I sensitive enough to God’s simple ways of getting my attention, or do I want a grand sign from him?

This season of lent, may we be humble and accept that we are sinners. May we seek forgiveness from God, and may we do what we need to do and change our ways. Let us be sensitive to his voice calling us, asking us to change.

God bless!