By Rev. Aidan Moon

God’s Love for the City

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“Jonah went out of the city and sat to the east of the city and made a booth for himself there. He sat under it in the shade, till he should see what would become of the city.”

– Jonah 4:5, English Standard Version

I have never been much of a city-dweller. I grew up in rural areas, and I’ve tended to avoid big cities when I can. Cities have people, and that many people close together bring problems. At least, that’s how I’ve often felt.

But Jonah’s story convicted me.

Jonah had similar feelings about the city of Ninevah. He saw Ninevah and he just saw big city problems. Ninevah was not a nice place. It, like so many cities in scripture, was full of sin. Even after God flipped his life around with his humbling big fish experience, Jonah still held onto his self-righteousness. He sat up on the hill and looked at the skyline and waited for God to rain down judgment.

But God loves people. And he loved them enough to send Jonah to preach a hard word that brought repentance. And he loves people enough that even wicked people who turn to him don’t find a cold shoulder but a warm welcome. God loves the city, because God loves people.

Jonah resented this grace. But it is that same grace that is shown to him, and to you and me. We too have been shown mercy, and that mercy should move us to see wherever people dwell as a place God can yet redeem. That in the end, God will redeem and restore even cities, as we dwell together in the New Jerusalem. We live in and among the communities of this world with that hope in mind. Come, Lord Jesus!

Copyright Family of Christ Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado