The story of Jonah and the great fish is well known to many young people - it is an attractive, exciting tale (pun intended, sorry). Like many Myths, the story carries a message within what is clearly an impossible event. The three days in the belly of the fish pre-image Christ's three day internment following the crucifixion. But the main message perhaps, is that the Gentile fishermen respond more positively to Jonah's prayers of conversion than the Jewish people had done. The book of Jonah is has several similar tales - Jonah's message is accepted by those whom (as a good jew) he would rather not convert, while his own people reject him. This also pre-figures Jesus' ministry.
Jesus persevered however without hesitation.
Let us today pray for all those who hope to share the good news with others - may we alway accept God's work in others, even if we very much do not expect it!