Understanding that day Today

 Read Joel 2.

As one reads this chapter, two understandings are required.  First, the term "the day of the LORD" includes both the judgment of God and the joy that will follow.  Second, quite often in the prophetical books there is a merger of the immediate historical context and the future events regarding the end times. 

The immediate threat to Judah was the coming invasion by the Babylonians.  In chapter one they are compared to a devastating locust plague.  Innumerable and unstoppable describes this army from the north.  However, it was God Himself who was the real power of this judgment.  Notice the four-fold claim in verse 11 using the word "his": "The LORD utters his voice before his army for his camp is exceedingly great; he who executes his word is powerful."

"Yet even now" (vv.12-13) the LORD issued a call for the nation to repent.  Even with the coming punishment on its way, there is a repeat of 1:13-14.  Their relationship with God had been broken due to their sin.  Instead of tearing their garments in the cultural display of grief, He asked them to tear their hearts and return to Him.  The need for prayer and fasting is so urgent that everyone was to stop what they were doing and gather together (v.16).  This was an emergency!

There is a change in theme beginning at verse 18 as the LORD speaks of restoration for Judah.  Describing that future time, He will remove their reproach among the nations.  He will remove their enemies.  The land will flourish again.  And most importantly, "You shall know that I am in the midst of Israel, and that I am the LORD your God and there is none else.  And my people shall never again be put to shame." (v.27)

Not only has the world not seen the fulfillment of verse 27, but the events of verses 30-32 remain future to us.  Jesus referred to this passage in Matthew 24:29 and said that these events would take place in conjunction with the tribulation.  This is confirmed in Revelation 6:12.

If the judgment is certain, then why pray?  Because of the nature of God.  Verse 13 tells us who God is: "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."  The real question is never about God's love for us, but our loyal love for Him.