In today's gospel reading the Son of Man comes 'in a cloud with power and great glory' (verse 27). The second coming of Christ is different from the first.

In his first coming, the Son of God manifests himself in human flesh and takes on all human limitations and becomes one of our fellow human beings.

In the second coming, however, the Son of Man comes with power and great glory at the time when God's project of salvation of the world and for the whole universe is complete and fulfilled.

This accomplishment is God's glory. People now know that God is the one and true master of Time, History and Life. They now know what power truly means. Hence, the Son of Man comes to bring us back to God 'in a cloud with power and great glory'.

Furthermore, destruction and desolation and the End Time are two different happenings. The former is 'days of vengeance' and accountability (verse 22). Somehow, in God's way, some people will be converted and be made right. Remember, God is the master of History.

So now, in times of difficulties and untold hardship, I remember that God will give me wisdom and eloquence that would expose the inhumanity of my enemies.

The world will see their follies and will be converted to solidarity and brotherly love to counter the Evil One. We live on God's promise. We will win, for the glory of God, for the second coming of the Christ.