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Verse:Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,” for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. —Revelation 21:1, 2, NIV
Dear God, we are living in the last days —I know this is so from what I read in the Bible and what church pastors often tell us.
Events over the last decade seem to confirm this reality.
There is an increase in catastrophic earthquakes, hurricanes, and other weather-related disasters. Devastating fires burn for weeks, leaving behind nothing but death and destruction. Father, the hearts of human beings seem to grow more desperately wicked; consequently, murders and other vicious crimes increase at an alarming rate. The year 2020 brought COVID-19. This formless enemy descended on us like a supercharged war machine, killing people indiscriminately and leaving survivors, households, and communities stunned and stupefied. People quarantined in their homes questioned, “What does it all mean? Where do we turn for answers?” Lord, for those who read the Scriptures, there are answers —answers that will provide seekers of truth with solace, encouragement, and comfort through Your promises.
Yes, the storms are raging.
There is no sign or assurance that these current tempestuous events will subside anytime soon. In fact, our Savior warned, “You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come” (Matthew 24:6, NIV). Thank You for comforting Your church with these words: “Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. … Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor’s crown” (Revelation 2:10, NIV).
Father, whatever state the world is in, your children can rest in You and be at peace because Your Word promises You will never leave us nor forsake us (see Deuteronomy 31:8). We look to You with expectation and hope and to Your soon coming and glorious kingdom.
Jasmine E. Grant