Throughout this short exploration of the book of Jonah, we have been

confronted with the radical – and uncomfortable - nature of God as being

full of compassion. If we are on the receiving end, it is quite lovely! But

when we are charged to proclaim that mercy to others – at least some of

whom we would prefer not be given the opportunity to hear it lest they

repent! – it is a different story.

In a world in which we are weaponized against one another, Jonah calls us,

in spite of himself, to learn compassion from God – and especially towards

those we think, perhaps accurately, least deserving of it. If we are going

to be at all useful in partnering with God to save the world, it is a

lesson needing to be learned.

By Bill Dogterom