Prophet Joel, son of Pethuel, came from the region beyond the Jordan and lived in the city of Bethoron. His prophetic ministry began in response to a great calamity that befell the kingdom of Judah: a prolonged drought and a locust invasion. The prophet called the people to turn to Jehovah in prayer for help, predicting that the day of the Lord would be a day of terrible calamities, but also a day of salvation for Israel.
The people heeded Joel's call, and the Lord spared them, promising prosperity and abundance of earthly goods. The prophet foretold that the time would come when the Holy Spirit would be poured out on all flesh, and all would prophesy. He also predicted a universal judgment, which would be dreadful for the Gentiles but salvific for Israel, where Jehovah would be a refuge and defense.
Thus, the prophet Joel comforted the people, encouraging them with hope for God's mercy and deliverance from calamities.
