Joppa—Israel’s Ancient Port

Joppa served as Israel’s primary port in the Old Testament. Coming to the site always makes me think of the reluctant prophet, Jonah. Remember that guy?

Jonah boarded a ship here from Joppa bound for Spain—the opposite direction from God’s will! In the furious storm that followed, Jonah found himself in the belly of a great fish, finally confessing, “Salvation is from the LORD” (Jonah 2:9). Of course, Jonah meant his salvation—not the Assyrians'. In His grace, God appointed the fish, then later, a plant, a worm, and a wind . . . all to get Jonah to change.

I can’t help but wonder what creature comforts God will remove from our lives to reveal our inordinate preoccupation with self?

Wayne Stiles
Bible Teacher for Emerald Bus 2