Repentance means work we would rather avoid
The sign of Jonah is the sign of repentance which leads to renewal. The ultimate renewal is resurrection in Christ. There is a great difference between the way this world seeks deliverance and renewal and how God goes about it. Purely worldly revolutions begin with enthusiasm and an illusion of having arrived at an earthly paradise. Later, disillusionment sets in. The revolution may become very cruel and the product may be bitterness.
Along God’s way, the bitterness comes first. Jonah didn’t want to preach repentance. Jesus certainly would have preferred not being crucified. In the Garden of Olives his prayer is explicit on this point. For us who are sinners, it is bitter to have to face up to our flaws and need for spiritual repair. Repentance means work we would rather avoid. Out of it however there comes a peace which we never knew before. In place of bitterness there appears a forgiving spirit—a kindliness which makes the world a better place to live in.
Prayer:
You alone can work a revolution of love within me, Lord Jesus. Only then can I become a fit instrument to change my world. Purify my heart.