Biblical Context:
The account of Jonah's anger at God's compassion is found in the Book of Jonah, specifically in chapter 4. Jonah, a prophet of Israel, is called by God to go to the city of Nineveh and proclaim a message of impending judgment due to their wickedness. Initially, Jonah attempts to flee from this divine commission, but after a series of miraculous events, including being swallowed by a great fish, he eventually obeys and delivers God's warning to the Ninevites.

Jonah 4:1-4 :
"But to Jonah this seemed very wrong, and he became angry. So he prayed to the LORD: 'Please, LORD, was this not what I said while I was still in my own country? That is why I was so quick to flee toward Tarshish. I knew that You are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion—One who relents from sending disaster. And now, LORD, please take my life from me, for it is better for me to die than to live.' But the LORD replied, 'Have you any right to be angry?'"

Analysis:
Jonah's anger is rooted in his understanding of God's character. He acknowledges God's graciousness, compassion, patience, and loving devotion. Jonah's reluctance to go to Nineveh initially stemmed from his fear that God would indeed show mercy to the Ninevites if they repented. His anger reveals a struggle with the concept of divine justice and mercy, particularly when extended to a people he viewed as enemies of Israel.

Theological Implications:
Jonah's reaction highlights a tension between human expectations of justice and God's sovereign will. Jonah's displeasure at God's compassion underscores a common biblical theme: God's mercy often transcends human understanding and prejudice. The narrative challenges believers to reflect on their own attitudes towards God's grace, especially when it is extended to those they might consider undeserving.

God's Response:
God's response to Jonah's anger is both gentle and probing. By asking Jonah if he has any right to be angry, God invites Jonah to examine his own heart and motivations. This question serves as a reminder of God's authority and the prophet's role as a servant of the divine will, not as a judge of it.

Further Reflection:
The account of Jonah's anger at God's compassion invites readers to consider the breadth of God's mercy and the call to align one's heart with God's purposes. It challenges believers to embrace God's compassion for all people, recognizing that His ways are higher than human ways. The narrative encourages a posture of humility and submission to God's redemptive plan, even when it defies personal expectations or desires.