The first reading today presents an image of dark times, where terrifying beasts that bring destruction and death strike terror into the hearts of all who saw them. Yet, their power, though immense, was nothing before the throne of the Ancient One, and the power of that throne was given to the Son of Man, Who will hold power forever.

In modern times, we too see many "beasts" around us: wars, disasters, corruption, poverty and uncertainty looms over our future. Anxiety and depression have become almost synonymous with modern life and hope seems like a fragile, even foolish dream. But we're reminded that no beast, no matter how overwhelming, can ever overcome the power given to the Son of Man, Jesus Christ. He is with us, and His kingdom is not a distant promise, but a reality even in times of fear and despair.

Jesus' words in the Gospel today, "when you see these things happening, know that the Kingdom of God is near," invites us to recognise that His kingdom, present in the darkness of our times, has power greater than anything that threatens to destroy us and calls us to place our hope in Him whose reign shall never pass away.