This week in our Immerse reading bible we read through the book of Joel in its entirety. I don’t think it is coincidental that this is one of the last books, the week before Christmas, which is one of the last weeks of the year of 2020. Which, I think we can all agree that this year did not go in any way shape or form as expected. For instance, the year started out with the wildfires in Australia, locust swarms in Africa, near war between the U.S and Iran, Covid-19 shelter-in-place mandates across the globe, and the murder of George Floyd which spurred on a rejuvenated the call for social reform for our brothers and sisters of color.
All of these events separately and collectively had the opportunity to show parts of our own ideology, our own theology, and our own egocentrism. Reflect back on this year, reflect back on how you handled certain situations that arose this year. Did you donate? Did you encourage or shy away from the potential war? Did you follow the mandate and accept the face masks? Did you sit silent or speak up for those that are not being heard?
The Word teaches that what is done in private will be brought to light, that is transcendent not only to actions but thoughts and emotions. If on any of the above questions you cringed or felt convicted, I am sure you are not alone. We all fall short daily, we all need to repent and at times remember to view the Word through the lens of self-reflection first. It is easy when we read the Word to apply it to the world around us and those we see on a daily basis. It is easy to read Joel and nod your head in agreement that people need to hear this specific message.
Yet, the second verse of the book of Joel directs this at the elders and all inhabitants of the land of Judah. He is directing this at people that know of God but don’t know God. He is directing it at the elderly, those that set the example, those that pass down wisdom and knowledge, those whose actions and characteristics are adopted by the younger generations.
We are all an elder to someone, even if that someone is our 5 year-old niece or a cousin 10 years younger than us. They look to us for guidance, direction, and how to handle situations when they arise. That is what we are here for, to share the good news. But if we are constantly reading and pointing the Word outward, are we truly receiving the insight it has for us to see and then share?
Joel reminds us of how God is slow to anger, merciful and compassionate, and filled with unfailing love. This is a welcome reminder at the end of another year when reflection often happens, family is at the forefront, and the celebration of Jesus’ birth is coming.