JONAH

God's message to Nineveh Jonah quashed
For he desired no safety for the lost.
"Cry against their wickedness, " God had said.
Jonah chose no hope; they must bear the cost.

Hatred thoughts had he for Gentile pagans;
Enemies deserve to be forsaken.
Righteous anger burned, end of forgiveness.
So, fleeing the scene, escape chance taken.

A ship to Tarshish, other direction,
Perfect timing to avoid detection.
This runaway prophet from God's command
Boarded the vessel, choosing defection.

A massive storm supernaturally sent
Overwhelmed the deck, boom and mast were bent.
Each man wondered, "What god did we anger?"
The captain asked, "Do you think they'll relent?"

Through raging storms no sailor sleeps,
His wits about him he must always keep.
But this fleeing prophet rebelliously
Went down in the hold and slumbered deep.

The ship's crew cast lots to see who's at fault,
And Jonah's name quickly jumped to the top.
He then confessed the storm was sent for him,
And added, "Throw me in, the storm will stop."

Gladly obliging, the crew pitched him o'vr.
Swallowed by a great fish, doubtful kosher,
Jonah stayed three days and nights praying hard
To be released with thanksgivings to offer.

Unforgiving attitude transitioned,
On dry land Jonah resumed his mission
Preaching sin, forgiveness, and salvation,
Never to rebel but seek contrition.