MOVE TOWARD THE LIGHT
Joel was a prophet to the nation of Judah. Many believed he
prophesied during the reign of King Joash (835-796 B.C.). The date
of Joel’s book is not nearly as important as its timeless message:
Sin brings God’s judgment, yet along with God’s justice there is
also great mercy.
Joel uses what appears to be a metaphor in the form of locusts to
convey his message. The people had strayed and had fallen into
sinful ways. Joel was calling for them to repent since the locusts,
in the form of God’s judgment, were fast approaching. The locusts
marched along as an army, devouring all within their path. Such,
Joel warned, would be the nature of God’s judgment. Yet, God loves
us and wishes us to sin no more. Verse 12 stands out --- it is part
of our Lenten liturgy. We sing, “Return to the Lord your God, for he
is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast
love.”
In this dark time of Lent, we must turn to God with trust and
hope. As Joel called the people to repentance, so we are called to
remember we are God’s people, chosen by him; we are called to
continue moving toward the light of God’s mercy.
Gracious Heavenly Father, we ask for your forgiveness. Help us to
walk more closely in your footsteps so we might come to know your
saving grace. Amen
Suzanne Koch
