The Forecast

In stretches of weather like we're experiencing this summer, I have great sympathy for the local meteorologists. They don't have much to say other than it's hot, and it's going to stay that way, with no rain in sight. Nobody wants to hear the forecast, and on top of that, there are some who tend to want to shoot the messenger. Other than perhaps the times when a big snow is predicted and not a flake materializes, when school kids and teachers think they're going to get a day off, I can't imagine a worse time to be a weather forecaster.
 
Prophets face the same kind of job description. When they're talking about the imminent arrival of the Savior, people are happy, but when "tough times ahead" is the prophecy, nobody wants to hear it. And usually, few want to take the steps required to avert impending difficulties. The citizens of Ninevah, as recorded in the Book of Jonah, are a notable exception. They went on a city-wide fast to concentrate on the message Jonah gave them which said they would be overthrown in 40 days. The king also led his citizens in repenting in sackcloth and ashes, while proclaiming that everyone should "call on God earnestly that each may turn from his wicked way and from the violence which is in his hands." With their sincere change of heart, they were able to reverse the predicted doom of their city.
 
There are many prophets these days. In fact, it would seem almost everyone foresees difficult times ahead. The question becomes: What are we going to do about it? Will we sit idly by and seal a calamitous fate, or will we take action to achieve a favorable outcome? It should be noted, the Ninevites did not merely call on God, they put away wickedness and violence.
 
If there is agreement that our country faces adversity, then we should also find a way to be in harmony about the solution. Selfishness, greed and continued violence will not solve our problems. At every level -- government, corporate, church, individual -- we must see the way to open our hearts and put the needs of others above our own. We can pray that God will help us, but he has already given us the answer. It's the repentance shown by Ninevah.