Jonah’s message was a call to repentance. The Ninevites were wicked and God was not happy with them. But as they repented, God showed mercy to them. Jesus is telling us to turn from our sinful ways. The people of Nineveh fasted and repented in sack cloth, and ashes. We need to examine our conscience and see how we approach the sacrament of reconciliation. Do we go to confession and rattle off the same sins? How many sins do we try to justify? Sometimes we may not want to confess because we think God will not forgive. But the truth is that our God is waiting till we turn back to him like the prodigal son and give the truth to him without excuses. Jesus’ call is for a conversion of heart. It is the grace of the Holy Spirit that brings about the conversion of hearts. Let us come before the Lord as we are and examine our conscience. Let us give the truth of our hearts to Jesus and be washed in his precious blood and surrender our lives to God.

PRAYER: Abba Father, lead us to true repentance. Amen.