Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

Joel 2:12-14 (JDV)

Joel 2:12 Even now – this is Yahveh’s declaration – turn to me with all your heart, with fasting, weeping, and mourning.

Joel 2:13 Tear your hearts, not just your clothes, and return to Yahveh your God. You see, he is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger, substantial in covenant faithfulness, and he relents from sending disaster.

Joel 2:14 Who knows? He may turn and relent and leave a blessing behind him, so you can offer grain and wine to Yahveh your God.

the God who relents

Joel had a hard message for his nation. He had the commission from God to tell them that a series of serious disasters were on their way. But he also served to plead in God’s name for repentance, and to reveal to the nation that their God is gracious and compassionate. He can relent even now.

Our world is not safe. We are often just one violation short of annihilation. But our God pleads with us, because he is always willing to turn back. He can hold back his judgment and bless us and our descendants as well.

Lord, thank you for your willingness to reserve judgment. Too often we ignore your calls for repentance. We confess our selfish resistance, and beg for your blessing.