Tuesday, May 24, 2011

Predicting the Rapture


Sadly, it’s the religious extremists that receive media attention, ie, California-based Family Radio that predicted the May 21st Rapture. One man (with a chain of radio stations) generated worldwide headlines for his false alarm.

I will admit that the “end times” warning is a useful admonition, but it’s a misguided Biblical interpretation - pursued with too much enthusiasm!

How about some attention for the real Christian “extremists” doing relief work after the spring tornadoes in eastern North Carolina!?! Where’s the Reuters’ story on the NC Baptist Men, the Methodist’s MERCI program, Samaritan’s Purse and the Red Cross, an organization with a Christian foundation?

I believe it’s the present times - not the end times - that demand our attention as followers of Jesus Christ. What can we do to create some rapture for the lonely, sick, the hungry and poor - for the least of these to use Jesus’ term?

Let’s pray…


Father,

A group of our brothers and sisters were anticipating the Rapture on Saturday. They received abundant media attention, but they missed the mark.

Lord Christ, it seems your teaching was disregarded:

No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.
(Mark 13:32)

St. John’s vision in Revelation makes me think we won’t be swept up into the clouds, rather you will return to heal this broken planet.

Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth…and I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them…he will wipe every tear from their eyes…no more death or mourning or crying or pain...I am making everything new!”
(from Revelation 21:3-5)

Was that a warning of apocalypse or prophecy about a divine, decisive, rescue and repair operation?

While I wait (for that unknowable intervention) how can I prepare…to bring your way and presence to my family, workplace and community?

Holy Spirit, empower that mission. Amen.