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The death of John the Baptist is an inspiration and an encouragement to Christians suffering persecution. But to those of us who are not persecuted or imprisoned for our faith it still gives us an example to follow.

Mark 13 is not about the ‘end of the world’. it is about the birth pain, the struggle of labour which happens as God’s kingdom breaks into history, through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus, bringing great joy and new life.

As Christians we are called to stand up, stand out and make a difference. That is likely to ruffle a few feathers and challenge a few vested interests.

This is cosmic drama. This is Christmas from a heavenly perspective. John wants to assure his readers that if you remain faithful to Jesus it will cost you, but you will be protected and you will receive the crown of life.

Throughout the book of Revelation, the call of God’s people is to bear faithful witness to Jesus, even though it will mean suffering, and quite possibly a shameful death.

John in exile thinks about the churches under persecution back home and, when praying for them on the Lord's day, hears a voice behind him. God is bringing comfort to his people, the central vision of the Lord Jesus standing in majesty.