Cathi: Matthew 24 talks about the signs of the times before Christ's return.

Wars, famine, plagues, earthquakes, etc. are all signs of the times. False prophets deceiving many are included here too.

But one of the most important clues for me is that Christ predicted that the gospel should be preached unto all nations before the end (see verse 14).

This has almost been accomplished. The gospel is now being preached by so many means and in so many languages... there are not many places left in the world that have not heard the gospel. So that for me is a clear sign that Christ's return is not too far away.

Of course, no one can predict a certain date, only God knows when the day shall be (v. 36). But we ought to live ready for Him.

Mammajude-one thing Jesus promised is to shorten these terrible days out of love for his children,(see Matthew 24: 22).

Hope this helps.