Isaiah 2: 1-5

In Isaiah’s vision the nations of the world have an aim and a destiny, towards peace with each other and peace with God.  They will eventually beat their swords into ploughshares and their spears into sickles 

Romans 13: 11-14

This is a call to be ready and to live decently, for salvation is near. 

Matthew 24: 37-44

Jesus warns us to stay awake and prepare because we never know when we will be called to meet him. 

2 Samuel 5: 1-3

The northern tribes, following the example of the tribes in the south, anoint David as their king. 

Colossians 1: 12-20

Christ has brought us into God’s kingdom by the shedding of his blood. 

Luke 23: 35-43

Jesus promises a place in the kingdom to the ‘good thief’. 

2 Maccabees 7: 1-2. 9-14

In this story of persecution, the author teaches us about the ultimate justice of God. 

2 Thessalonians 2:16 – 3.5

St Paul encourages his listeners with the sure hope of the resurrection. 

Luke 20: 27-38

In conversation with Sadducees, Jesus teaches us about everlasting life. 

Malachi 3: 19-20

The prophet Malachi foretells a day when those who fear the Lord’s name will be bathed in righteousness. 

2 Thessalonians 3: 7-12

St Paul speaks of some of the rules and attitudes governing Christian community life. 

Luke 21: 5-19

Jesus warns of the future destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem and a time of persecution, but encourages perseverance in faith.

Apocalypse 7: 2-4, 9-14

John sees the vision of God bringing victory on a huge scale and to people from every nation, tribe and language. 

1 John 3: 1-3

We live in hope of a future yet to be revealed, but already we are the children of God. 

Matthew 5: 1-12

The Beatitudes provide us with a charter for Christian living.  They are both a challenge and a consolation.