Dear Partners and Friends,
When I watch the news these days, it seems like I am reading the Gospel of Matthew. In Chapter 24, he quotes Jesus as saying “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. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom.” In Greek, the word translated “nation” could also be translated “ethnic group.” We are seeing conflict between ethnic groups at a level arguably greater than any time in recent history.
Jesus goes on to say “There will be famines and earthquakes in various places.” We have seen this too, as a sign of the times. But this is not the end. He warns us that the “world” will hate true believers, and many nominal Christians on the fence will decide to “turn away from the faith, and betray and hate each other.”
These words paint a troubling picture of the days we are living in. But Jesus ends his comments with some very encouraging words. He says “the one who stands firm to the end will be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.”
How do we respond? Do not be alarmed. Stand firm. Those are Christ’s simple instructions. As I said last month, now is not the time to give up. Keep living your faith. Do not turn away from your faith because of disappointment. Keep praying. Keep expressing love in your actions to others. The return of Christ is approaching. Keep sharing the message of the Gospel. And keep loving your neighbors. As I have said in the past, if you need prayer or help in any way, please feel free to reach out to us. And please keep our brothers and sisters in India in prayer, as they face the same kinds of challenges that we face. Together we will overcome, and God will be glorified.
Blessings in the Wonderful Name of Jesus,
Thomas
So grateful for these words. We need to remain focused and fervent in these important days. Bless you folks for your example in this. God be glorified in India and in all places, through His people.