Welcome to 2012!
It's an exciting time; new opportunities, new possibilities and, in many ways, a new start. We also start 2012 with many uncertainties at a global, national and personal level; financial crises, unrest in many countries and the social issues growing everywhere do give us cause for concern.
However, Jesus told us that we could expect unrest and distress: "And there will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and on the earth distress of nations in perplexity because of the roaring of the sea and the waves, people fainting with fear and with foreboding of what is coming on the world. For the powers of the heavens will be shaken." (Luke 21:25-6 ESV).
But we can look forward to the New Year with confidence and hope. Jesus went on to explain that we should not panic, but should look then for God's intervention. "And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. Now when these things begin to take place, straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near." (Luke 21:27, 28 ESV)
So the signs of distress in the world are just signals that Jesus will soon return to set up God's kingdom. And that should give us great hope. In a perfect world, here on earth, God "will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away." (Revelation 21:4 ESV)
That is really good news and gives us a real hope as we move into the New Year.
To find out more…
Why not have a look at this video about our hope for the kingdom of God
Or listen to this link to a Bible talk about the return of Jesus Christ to the earth.