Today, the Church commemorates the Prophet Joel, one of the twelve minor prophets in the Old Testament.
Joel prophesied in Jerusalem between 830 and 750 BC, making him one of the earliest prophets.
Little is known about Joel, except that he was the son of Bethuel, and his name means “Lord’s love” in Greek.
The Book of Joel, with its four chapters, is known for its literary and poetic qualities in the Old Testament.
Joel’s prophecy foretells a devastating locust invasion, followed by drought, leading to the “Day of the Lord,” a time of divine judgment and promise of prosperity for God’s people.
Key phrases from Joel’s prophecy include the prediction of the Holy Spirit descending upon the Apostles on Pentecost.
The Apostle Peter references Joel’s prophecy to explain the miracle of Pentecost, where the Holy Spirit was poured out upon all people.
Another aspect of Joel’s prophecy is highlighted in the Church on the Sunday after Christmas, emphasizing God’s wonders in the heavens and on earth.
Joel, enlightened by the Holy Spirit, proclaimed the coming of a new world, encompassing both earthly and eternal life in the Church of Christ.
The Prophets’ teachings offer a promise for both present and eternal life.