God Is Up To Something

These words were most likely written as the Israelites were rebuilding following their exile. The prophet Joel shares a vision of what God has done and will do now. The Israelites need not fear any longer, “for the Lord has done great things!” (verse 21). The harvests will be plentiful. Israel will be repaid for their lost harvests in the past. Their tummies will be full. Shame will not come upon God’s people. The people will see God’s work, and the people will know that God is with them. They will know that the Lord is their God and no other. (verse 27)

How often do we take time to reflect on our past to consider what God has done for us? Like the Israelites before exile, during exile and returning from exile, God is in our midst through our joys and sorrows. Despite the dreadful situation of exile that the Israelites found themselves in, God brought about new life. Despite the dreadful situations we have found ourselves in, God has and will continue to bring about new life.

May we live our lives expecting God to continue to bring us new life.

O God of Israel, I believe that you are at work in the world. Open my eyes to see what you are doing. Amen. — ANS