Life's Inanities and Ironies

  Jesus did not only warn us about birth pains; He told us how to live in the midst of them: “See that you are not alarmed… the one who endures to the end will be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come” (Matthew 24:6, 13–14). The proper response to global unrest is not panic, political obsession, or withdrawal. It is faithful endurance and bold witness. First, refuse fear. The command “see that you are not alarmed” is not a suggestion. Our Lord sits at the right hand of the Father and holds every event in His hand. The same God who numbers the hairs on our heads is not surprised by riots in Europe or anywhere else. Second, practice self-control and peacemaking. Romans 12:18 says, “If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.” That does not mean silence in the face of evil, but it does mean we do not join the world’s rage or excuse lawlessness. Third, keep pro...

  Beloved in Christ, open your eyes to the headlines. Streets in Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Tirana, Milan, and other cities have burned. Peaceful marches over the cost of living and failing schools were overtaken by firebombs, arson of city halls and tourist offices, looting of shops, and clashes that left hundreds of police injured and thousands arrested. Similar unrest has flared in Italy, Albania, Portugal, and beyond. This is not merely politics or economics. It is a symptom of a deeper spiritual reality. Jesus prepared His people for exactly this kind of world. In the Olivet Discourse He said these things “must take place,” yet He commanded, “See that you are not alarmed.” Wars, rumors of wars, and the rising of nation against nation are the beginning of birth pains—not the delivery itself. The same pattern appears in the increasing lawlessness Jesus warned would cause the love of many to grow cold (Matthew 24:12). Economic hardship, frustration with governments, and the readines...