Dear COA Family,
“Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with carousing,
drunkenness and the anxieties of life, and that day will close on
you suddenly like a trap” (Luke 21:34).
As we enter the second half of 2026, the Scriptures remind us of
what is ultimately most important in our lives: to be prepared for
the coming of the Day of the Lord.
At its heart, the Day of the Lord refers to the time when God will
intervene decisively in human history to judge evil, vindicate His
people and establish His righteous rule. This will take place
through the return of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will come again
in the same way that He ascended into heaven (Acts 1:11). On that
day, His reign will be fully established and acknowledged by all
creation.
As the Apostle Paul writes, “At the name of Jesus every knee should
bow… and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord”
(Philippians 2:10–11).
Why is this important for us today?
We live in an age of unprecedented opportunity. Advances in
science, technology and communication have enabled us to
accomplish things that previous generations could scarcely
imagine. Many possibilities lie before us, and much good can
be achieved through human creativity and effort.
Yet we also live in an age marked by uncertainty and anxiety.
The same technologies that can be used for good can also be
used for harmful purposes. Wars and conflicts continue to erupt
across the world. Economic instability, social change and the
rapid development of artificial intelligence leave many wondering
what the future holds.
At times, it can feel as though we are caught in forces beyond our
control.
The Day of the Lord reminds us that history is not moving aimlessly.
Rather, it is moving toward God’s appointed conclusion. Evil will not
triumph forever. Suffering and injustice will end one day. God will
judge what is wrong, save those who belong to Him and establish
His righteous kingdom forever.
This is why the New Testament repeatedly calls believers to live
with watchfulness, holiness, perseverance and hope as we await
the coming of the Lord. As James writes: “Be patient, therefore,
brothers, until the coming of the Lord” (James 5:7).
May we live each day in readiness, trusting in God’s promises and
looking forward to the glorious return of our Lord Jesus Christ.
God bless,
Revd Ian