The Second coming of Christ is the source of great hope and comfort for the saints of God. For the suffering saints at Thessalonica, Paul presents that glorious event as means of encouraging them in the midst of the distress caused by their enemies. By the mercy of God, we live without persecution here in this land. It is not so for all of God's saints today and in truth we do not know just how long it may remains as it is presently with us. The liberal democracies may repudiate the idea of persecuting a fellow man but whether they concede it or not, the most civilised of societies may break forth into bloody hatred of God's people at any time. Hazael is an example of this, 2 Kings 8:11-13. Irrespective of whether or not we are called upon to live under persecution, the people of God are beset by troubles and afflictions. "Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivereth him out of them all," Ps 34:19. "That no man should be moved by these afflictions: for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto," 1 Thess 3:3. Consequently, the prospect of that rest which Christ will bring with Him for His people is a sweet source of consolation. I would end my ministry amongst you on a note of comfort and consolation and also by once more pointing you to the glorious return of our Saviour.