This Grecian word means to reveal and provides the title for Revelations, the last book in the Bible. This reveals events leading up to the end of the world, the day of judgement and the eternal destiny of the saved and lost.

On Sunday morning, September 9, I was speaking to more than 500 young people and quoted these chilling words of Jesus: "Nations will stand helpless, not knowing which way to turn." Luke 21:25; NEB 1961. I said that nothing can stop terrorists destroying the Manhattan skyline or the City of Westminster!

Readers of this column will know that over the years, I have carefully pointed out that the Bible says there will be an escalation of evil as history moves towards the climax that will conclude history, namely the second coming of the Lord Jesus Christ.

When Jesus was on earth the first time, He gave us a graphic description of what the world will be like prior to His second coming. He said it will be filled with violence and wickedness, just like the days before the flood, when people laughed at the preaching of Noah, rejected God's offer of salvation through the Ark, and were swept away by the flood. Genesis 6:5-11, Matthew 24:37-39, Luke 17:26, 27.

The prophet Daniel, famous for being in the lion's den, looked forward across the centuries and prophesied the death of the Messiah (Christ) and the destruction of Jerusalem and its Temple. This was carried out by the Romans in AD70 Daniel 9:26.

Looking ahead more than 2000 years Daniel also accurately described today's world when he foretold a great increase in travel and knowledge, the very things that help terrorists. Daniel 12:4.

Imagine you are in a doomed aircraft! Are you ready to meet your Maker? If not, turn from your sins to Christ now!

Heavenly Father, we pray that you will draw near and comfort all who are suffering through bereavement, injury or shock at this very sad time. Help us to believe that "All things work together for good to them that love God" Romans 8:28 and to never lose sight of your love that was so clearly displayed when Jesus gave His life for us on the cross.

David V Jebson