Revelation 8:6-9:21.    I have not been entirely convinced by the various interpretations of this passage that I have read.  This seems like a prophecy requiring a number of clues to get at its interpretation. What I do get is that the events it describes take place in John’s future, but before the return of Christ. The wars and plagues are felt by the population of the whole earth.  The most unbelievable words here are “the rest…did not repent.”  But we have to admit that it accurately describes the stance this world has taken to the sufferings it has faced.

LORD, help us to listen to our pain.  May it drive us to you and not from you.