Many will be purified, made spotless and refined, but the wicked will continue to be wicked.

— Daniel 12:10a

His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Enter into the joy of your master!’

— Matthew 25:21

You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. These things must happen, but the end is still to come.

— Matthew 24:6

14 You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden.

16 In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

— Matthew 5:14, 16

Once again, Jesus spoke to the people and said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows Me will never walk in the darkness, but will have the light of life.”

— John 8:12

Thoughts on Today’s Reading

Grace, mercy and love from Christ to you.

All Daniel’s life, his character and actions confirmed the posture of his heart toward God. Dedicated to prayer, faithful to God, and humbly loyal toward his earthly superiors, Daniel served God out of joy, love, and devotion, not obligation. As God’s people abide in Him, He empowers them to honor and give witness to Him. Every Christian should want to hear the Lord say, “Well done, good and faithful servant!” In our devotion to God, He fills us with joy. When we lift our desires to God, He answers our prayers.

We believers can offer back to God only what He imparts to us. We know we are frail but utterly depend upon God and keep active trust in His provision. God’s Spirit works within us to accomplish what is impossible in our own strength. Nowadays, wars and rumors of wars resonate in this world. The wicked will continue to be wicked. The end times promise even more conflicts. The permeating darkness provides the backdrop against which Christ’s light shines. God positions us to represent Him in this world. God remains in control. Let’s follow Him, trust Him, and abide in Him.