Bible Passage Scripture Block

Yet even now, declares the Lord, return to me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning; and rend your hearts and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love; and he relents over disaster.

But even now, God says it’s not too late to return to Him begin single-minded and demonstrating your devotion with fasting and sorrow. Your repentance must be sincere and not for show. Return to God, for He is gracious and merciful, slow to be angry and overflowing with love for you, often turning from exercising condemnation.

Not much is known about the prophet Joel. He was probably one of the earlier prophets (maybe around 8-900 BC). Some believe he was a priest because of his many statements to/about priests. Many believe he lived in Jerusalem and his primary audience was the southern nation of Judah (if he lived during the divided kingdom years). The book of Joel is poignant given his vision of devastating locusts that completely devour the land. Throughout, he calls the people to repent before this “great and awesome day of the Lord” (vs 31).