Today, in Joel 2, we see the Lord’s response. He will drive away the army, and He will do great things to restore and make all things beautiful. He will repay for the years that the locusts have eaten. The Lord can and will redeem and restore all things; there will be a new heaven and a new earth. God is not done with us yet. This does not mean that the pain we may have felt in the past is invalid or unimportant. Of course, it is. But what this does mean is that God sees. And God will repay. God will restore.

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Good morning! It’s wonderful to be with you this Thursday morning as we delve further into the book of Joel. Today, we’re exploring Joel chapter 2, focusing on its middle section. Joel 2 can be divided into three main parts: an explanation of events, the human response of repentance, and finally, God’s response to the people’s repentance. Let’s dive into verses 18 through 27, where we witness God’s gracious response to His people’s turning back to Him.

Verse 18 marks God’s reaction to His people’s repentance. It portrays God’s jealousy for His land and His compassion towards His people. The concept of the land holds profound significance in the Old Testament, symbolizing God’s presence among His people. As Saint Augustine beautifully articulated, our souls find eternal rest in God alone. The land, therefore, represents a tangible experience of God’s presence.

In verses 19 to 27, we see God’s promises of restoration and abundance. He pledges to provide for His people abundantly, assuring them that they will no longer be a mockery among the nations. The imagery of the locust invasion, symbolizing devastation and loss, is contrasted with the promise of restoration and prosperity. God assures His people that He will remove the threat of destruction and bless them with abundance once again.

Verse 25, in particular, stands out as a testament to God’s redemptive power. He promises to repay His people for the years that the locusts have consumed. This demonstrates God’s ability to redeem even the most devastating losses. While the scars of past traumas may remain, God’s restoration brings healing and renewal to His people.

As believers, we find hope in God’s promise of restoration. Despite the trials and tribulations we may face, we can trust in God’s faithfulness to repay and restore. His love and mercy endure forever, offering us hope and assurance in the midst of adversity.

In conclusion, Joel chapter 2 reveals God’s unwavering commitment to His people. His response to their repentance is marked by grace, compassion, and the promise of restoration. As we navigate life’s challenges, let us hold fast to the hope that God’s redemption extends to every aspect of our lives. May we trust in His faithfulness and find solace in His promise to repay and restore.

Thank you for journeying through Joel chapter 2 with me today. Tomorrow, we’ll explore the conclusion of this chapter. Have a blessed day!