Happy Ending

Whether watching a TV show, video or movie, or reading a book, everyone likes happy endings, where the main characters triumph over tragedy and overwhelming odds. We like to see the hero or heroine get justice or some other reward. Ultimately, we like to see evil soundly defeated and, at times, completely eliminated. We want the events to happen this way because in real life there are few happy endings.

Good hardly ever seems to triumph and never seems to win out.

The bad news is that things are not going to get better, yet.

Jesus replied: "Don't let anyone mislead you, for many will come in my name, claiming, 'I am the Messiah', and saying 'The time has come!' But don't believe them. And when you hear of wars and insurrections, don't panic. Yes, these things must take place first, but the end won't follow immediately." Then he added, "Nation will go to war against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be great earthquakes, and there will be famines and plagues in many lands, and there will be terrifying things and great miraculous signs from heaven." [Luke 21.8-11]

Jesus warns his followers that in the end times they will be persecuted, arrested and killed because of him. But he also reassures them that those who remain faithful to him during the difficult times will definitely experience a happy ending.

"But before all this occurs, there will be a time of great persecution. You will be dragged into synagogues and prisons, and you will stand trial before kings and governors because you are my followers. But this will be your opportunity to tell them about me. So don't worry in advance about how to answer the charges against you, for I will give you the right words and such wisdom that none of your opponents will be able to reply or refuse you! Even the closest to you -- your parents, brothers, relatives and friends -- will betray you." [12-16]

Following Christ has always entailed the risk of rejection from others. Jesus reassures us that whenever that happens, he stands right there with us, with his Holy Spirit guiding and helping us.

"And everyone will hate you because you are my followers. But not a hair of your head will perish! By standing firm, you will win your souls." [17-19]

Remember this next time you need courage or hope, and then stand firm for Christ.

If your present struggles seem overwhelming, take hope as you read this passages -- God's story has a truly happy ending.

I believe!

# The One Year Through the Bible devotional # by Dave Veerman