I was recently reading through the Old Testament book of Jonah and God used this 'prophetic' book to speak some 'practical' truths. As a preacher I've often reminded people that Jonah is filled with much adventure and many themes. One can easily see rebellion, prayer, second chances, preaching, revival, and pride.
Jonah is also about MISSIONS. Why Missions? Let me explain.
One- There was a great need in a far away place. God calls Jonah to leave where he is and go to the distant city of Ninevah. Surely you know the story, but Jonah rose and fled in the exact opposite direction. If we're not careful we can do the same.
There are great needs today as well...in China, India, Uganda, Ukraine, Equador, Canada, Guatemala, and America. There are also great needs in the Holy Land! Amazing huh? The land our Lord was born in, raised in, ministered in, died in, rose in, and coming back to...is mostly lost. This is not a large land but it is a lost land. With almost 9M people only 5000 are evangelical Christians. Truly the need is great.
Two- Somebody has to be willing to leave their comfort zone and go. There are many reasons the preacher didn't want to go to Ninevah and there are many reasons people will give for not going to Nazareth, or anywhere else for that matter.
Thankfully God gave Jonah a second chance and the prophet made good on his vow.
People, this story is not about a great city, a great storm, a great fish, or a great revival-it's about a great God!
When Jonah got right and obeyed the Lord, some awesome things happened. In fact, a great transformation came into the entire city...when we pray and preach, God will show up!
Three- God specializes in working in places where there are many children. The last verse in the book of Jonah reminds us of God's compassion on children. God made children the objects of His love and Jesus made them the standard of one's trust. D.L. Moody once said, " If I could relive my life I would devote my entire ministry to reaching children for God".
As you prayerfully consider your support for and participation with Friends of Nazareth and the 1030 students of the Nazareth Baptist School please recall these areas-
there is a great need in far away places like Nazareth, we must be willing to give and to go, and God cares much about children and so must we.
Can any good thing come out of Nazareth...come and see!
Dr Roger D. Mardis, President
Friends of Nazareth