In the aftermath of the latest terrorist attack on London, politicians took to the airwaves in order to condemn the atrocity and suggest solutions. Tragically however, interviews were cut short as news started to filter through of the road the bridge that collapsed in Genoa. Within moments we were reminded that we live in a society which is broken, as well as in a world that is fallen. A world in which natural and ecological disasters appear to be increasing in severity and prevalence.

Yet, as Christians we are not without hope. In Matthew Chapter 24, Jesus takes time to warn his followers of that which is to come. Jesus predicted that there would be numerous false prophets and a host of wars, both great and small. There would be famines and earthquakes, yet worse would yet come. Jesus continues to warn his followers that they would be arrested, persecuted and even killed. However, although some would grow cold and fall away, Jesus claims ‘And the Good News about the Kingdom will be preached throughout the whole world, so that all nations will hear it; and then the end will come’ (Verse 14).

So why is that such good news? Firstly, the end that Jesus speaks of, also ushers in the beginning of something altogether more glorious. According to John’s Revelation, God will establish a New Heaven and a New Earth and the two that were distinct are will be united for ever (Revelation Chapter 21). Secondly, Jesus implicitly reveals when all this will take place. He tells us that the end will come only once the good news about his rule and reign is made known throughout the earth. I leave you then with the words of Peter, Jesus friend and follower who said:

Since everything around us is going to be destroyed like this, what holy and godly lives you should live, looking forward to the day of God and hurrying it along. On that day, he will set the heavens on fire, and the elements will melt away in the flames. But we are looking forward to the new heavens and new earth he has promised, a world filled with God’s righteousness. And so, dear friends, while you are waiting for these things to happen, make every effort to be found living peaceful lives that are pure and blameless in his sight. (2 Peter 3:11-14)

Yours and His, Gareth