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Joel 2:25-27 (JDV)

Joel 2:25 I will repay you for the years that the winging stage locust ate, the crawling stage locust, the destroying locust, and the recently mature locust– my great army that I sent against you.

Joel 2:26 You will have plenty to eat and be satisfied. You will praise the name of Yahveh your God, who has dealt wondrously with you. My people will never again be put to shame.

Joel 2:27 You will know that I am present in Israel and that I am Yahveh your God, and there is no other. My people will never again be put to shame.

theology-experience disconnect

The nation felt the shame of being victims of circumstances which were far beyond their control. They had been devastated, and felt it highly likely that they would be annihilated. But in the back of their minds they remembered the theology they had gleaned from their sacred scriptures. What they were experiencing felt disconnected from their theology of God. They were taught that God was sovereign over the affairs of humanity, and that he could prevent such tragedy.

The prophet came along to remind them that their theology was right. God is sovereign over all his creation. If they experienced tragedy, it was because God sent it. But his ultimate plan for them is not destruction, but revival and restitution. What he took away, he can restore.

Loving Father, we have felt your hand. We acknowledge your right to do what you have done, and our need for discipline. We confess our pride and selfishness. We plead for restoration.