Jesus' predictions about the end times may sound dire, but in effect, it is to help us be ready and prepared for his coming.  Jesus doesn’t seek to put fear in us but strengthens us to stand firm in the face of tribulations. In his person and in his message, those who heard Jesus found strength and consolation. Like the first Christians, we may encounter events and circumstances that could lead us to despair. Through prayer, however, we find strength and consolation in Jesus' words and in his continuing presence with us to endure all things and to witness to the action of God in our world.