What happensPermalink
Joel describes a devastating locust plague so severe that its story should be told for generations. The locusts destroy vine, fig tree, grain, and pasture, cutting off the Lord’s offerings and causing drunkards, farmers, and priests alike to mourn. Joy disappears with the harvest. Joel calls the priests to lament, fast, gather the people, and cry out to God. As food vanishes and even the animals suffer, Joel himself cries to the Lord over devastation as thorough as fire.
Why it mattersPermalink
Whether Joel describes literal locusts in military language or uses locusts to portray invasion, the devastation is overwhelming. More importantly, Joel interprets the catastrophe as a sign that the Day of the Lord is near. Israel’s proper response is communal mourning, fasting, worship, and prayer, turning toward the sovereign God who alone can rescue them.
Key versePermalink
Consecrate a fast; call a solemn assembly. Gather the elders and all the inhabitants of the land to the house of the Lord your God, and cry out to the Lord.