The world is a pretty dark and scary place today. Evil, violence, and oppression can seem overpowering. We ask when it will all end – and many are tempted just to give up. But when Daniel interpreted Nebuchadnezzar's dream, it told a different story. The statue had 'feet of clay' – in other words, no foundation at all. It was extremely vulnerable and was brought low. And so it is with everything that is opposed to God – they may run amuck for a while, but eventually they will collapse. Be patient, have hope, be of good cheer. In the end, God always wins. Thank God!

When has the world not been a mess? When have we not had wars and rumours of wars? The disciples were enamoured with the beauty of the temple, but Jesus warned them of its imminent destruction. They should not cling to structures and institutions. Jesus warned of terrible things: earthquakes, wars, insurrections, famines, and plagues. It sounds a lot like our daily news. Throughout all of this, they are to keep their faith alive and support one another. These are but the birth pangs of a new age and world order. God is alive and God is in charge.