When I’m Rescued

18 Aug When I’m Rescued

ReadJonah 2

Thought for the Day: Jesus gives us a second chance!

While the actual moment of rescue is one of triumph and courage, it is impossible to be rescued without first facing disaster. The “Miracle of Dunkirk” (during World War II) is an inspirational moment from relatively recent history. However, it would never have been possible without what Winston Churchill described as “a colossal military disaster” that led to thousands of soldiers finding themselves stranded. This large-scale rescue served as a springboard for heroism. The soldiers rescued at Dunkirk were given a second chance to complete their ultimate mission of helping defeat the evil Nazi regime.

After running away from his call to preach at Nineveh, Jonah faced his own colossal disaster. Out of options, he was cast into the raging sea by the men he was sailing with. The story didn’t end there. Rather than drowning, Jonah was swallowed by a large fish sent by God. Jonah was given a second chance. Because of his second chance, Jonah took responsibility for his actions. He realized this chance he was given in the belly of a fish allowed him to resume his mission of preaching to the people in the city of Nineveh. Jonah repented and promised, “I with the voice of thanksgiving will sacrifice to you; what I have vowed I will pay.”

Do we see our second chances as the gifts they are? It is easy to only see ‘colossal disaster’ when we make a mess of things. However, it can be difficult to take responsibility and use a fresh start as a springboard for something new. While we aren’t fighting the Nazis or preaching in Nineveh, we have been given a clear mission: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” Our second chances are gifts that provide us the opportunity to tell our friends about Jesus. Remember, we serve the One who always gives us a second chance. As we realize we have been rescued from our sin and failures, let’s use our opportunity to carry out our mission and point others towards Jesus!

In Christ,

Pastors Stan and David