I read “Is this when we disappear?” (Wider World, May 5) with keen interest. I have a friend who, after watching a frightful movie on the rapture, recommitted his life to God. He became involved in Anabaptist churches and finally joined the Amish. He now claims to be an “Amish atheist.” I vividly remember the book, 88 Reasons Why the Rapture Will Be in 1988. That year came and went, as did the date-setting prophets. While we lament the ditch these authors and prophets fell into, now the critics are getting stuck in the ditch on the other side of the narrow way.    

Some who responded to invitations to accept Christ did so in fear — and continued to live in fear instead of in joyful surrender to the lordship of Christ. Because the date-setting prophets overhyped the rapture, some now say, “Where is the promise of his coming? All things continue as they were from the beginning.” I agree with grandma (mentioned in the article): It could happen at any moment. 

As Jesus said, “Keep awake therefore, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming” (Matthew 24:42). As I read the terrible daily news, I’m reminded that Jesus said, “Stand up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near” (Luke 21:28). 

Simon Schrock, Catlett, Va.