Thought for the week: Remember, evil will be defeated and God's peace will reign forever

As we near the Christmas season, churches will see people coming together in joyful celebration of the first coming of our Lord Jesus Christ to earth.

For some, this time also serves as a moment to reflect on the Second Advent, or Second Coming.

This hope is not just a distant dream but a promise of a future where peace and justice will prevail when Christ makes His return to earth.

The topic has sparked plenty of debate, and sadly, some have been misled into trying to pinpoint the exact moment of His arrival.

But the Bible reminds us "about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in Heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.”

I think of my grandmother, who lived through two world wars, and who often said: “The Lord’s coming is nearer than ever before.”

Her words are never outdated.

Before Christ’s reign begins, He gives us an insight in St Matthew 24 about the difficult times ahead. The events happening around us today seem to mirror those warnings.

While we pray and work towards peace in the world, the hope of Christ’s second coming continues to be a source of comfort that helps believers get through our toughest days.

It's easy to feel overwhelmed or lose hope, but if we put our trust in Christ, we can be confident that beyond all the chaos of this world, evil will ultimately be defeated and God’s peace will reign forever.

As we go through our daily lives, let us remember to stay ready, heeding Jesus’ warning:

“Therefore, you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.”