The Beginning of the End

This is Harold Camping. He’s pretty sure that Jesus is coming back tomorrow. There’s a countdown on his website; only 13 hours and 5 minutes to go!

I’ve written at least two ranty posts in my head since I first saw the billboard (“Judgement Day, May 21^st 2011! The Bible guarantees it!”). But the passing of time has diffused my initial passion and I’m no longer feeling so annoyed and disappointed by it. Yes, it’s annoying that he makes Bible-believing Christians seem foolish and loopy. Yes, it’s disappointing that this is a perfect example of people disagreeing about what the Bible really teaches. But, if nothing else, it's good to be reminded that judgement will come one day. And it could be tomorrow!

I do wonder what Harold and his followers will do with themselves on Sunday morning, though. Maybe a more interesting question: what are they doing with themselves right now?!

But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. Be on guard! Be alert! You do not know when that time will come. It’s like a man going away: He leaves his house and puts his servants in charge, each with their assigned task, and tells the one at the door to keep watch.

Therefore keep watch because you do not know when the owner of the house will come back—whether in the evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or at dawn. If he comes suddenly, do not let him find you sleeping. What I say to you, I say to everyone: ‘Watch!’ - Mark 13:32-37

The original photo is from here.