August 21, 2026
When God saw what [the people of Nineveh] did, how they turned from their evil ways, God changed his mind about the calamity that he had said he would bring upon them, and he did not do it.
Jonah 3:10
See also: God Relents in Exodus 32:14; Joel 2:13–14; Amos 7:3; Amos 7:6; Jeremiah 18:8; 2 Samuel 24:16
There’s a famous clip of when Fred Rogers testified before the U.S. Senate Subcommittee on Communications in 1969. John O. Pastore of Rhode Island, the committee chairman, questioned the use of public money for shows like Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood. Fred Rogers explained the aims of the show to reach children with positive messages about their emotions and imaginations, and all the values we hope to instill as parents and as a nation. He sang part of an original song he wrote about managing anger. The moment completely changed the attitude and perspective of the chairman from antagonism to enthusiastic support.
In all the years I’ve watched that clip, I’ve admired Fred Rogers, a fellow ordained Presbyterian minister. But recently, I’ve come to value the chairman more and more. While being like Mr. Rogers is a worthy goal, and his approach was as effective for children as adults, more of us adults need the singular gift embodied by Senator Pastore. This is an ability displayed by God in scripture over and over… the capacity to change one’s mind, to relent. We often talk about the ability to be swayed by others as weakness, when in fact, scripture often records this as strength. Mercy and grace are displays of strength - to change course and do what is right, rather than submit to momentum.
Senator Pastore said at the hearing that he was supposed to be the “tough guy” and that he had goosebumps. Imagine if we had more adults, more leaders who modeled being merciful, genuinely curious, and capable of learning, change, and compromise. Imagine if we demanded that and practiced it as believers! This week, I encourage you to examine your closely held beliefs and stubbornly dug-in positions. When and where can you invite a differing point of view, approach something new with curiosity, or offer the kind of humility necessary to change your mind and admit a personal need for course correction? I imagine we will hear God, echoing Mr. Rogers’ familiar, sincere blessing, “You're learning so many important things and I'm so proud of you.”
Prayer
Lord, help me be curious, to learn, and when you lead, when necessary and right, to relent. Amen.
Rev. Brian Daoust
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