Dear friends:

The correct time of year for the rapture has always been a subject of lively debate.  There are excellent arguments for a Spring rapture, such as at Pentecost, and also for a Fall rapture, such as a Trumpets.  Personally, I have vacillated back and forth on the subject.

However, I must say that for years I have leaned toward the time of the year on the Jewish calendar that represents when Noah entered the ark.  That is because Jesus said it would be "as in the days of Noah," a statement that I believe full of more meaning than most realize.  We also know that "the days of Noah" were before the feast days were given to Moses, so the rapture may not be on a Jewish feast day as most people believe.

A writer named Ed P. has a fascinating post explaining this at http://www.fivedoves.com/letters/nov2007/edp115.htm.

Noah apparently entered the ark on 10 Chesvan, and the flood began on 17 Chesvan.  That would have given him a seven-day warning before the flood began.

For what it's worth, according to the moon-based calendar, in 2007 10 Chesvan falls on November 19.  Seven days later is 17 Chesvan, or November 26.  I believe the rapture may be on a 10 Chesvan some year, and destruction may begin seven days later, just as "in the days of Noah."

Will this be the year?  I do not know, but let us hope.

Speaking of destruction, a friend has done an extensive study on the threat of an EMP (electromagnetic pulse) attack on the U.S.  One nuclear air burst could totally cripple us, knocking out all electricity, electronics, etc. and making us totally helpless, without food, water, heat, or communications, and in chaos.  In a moment, it would virtually cause us to cease to be a country.  Even our military would be largely disabled, and there is not a lot we can do about it.  We are vulnerable, like a deer in the headlights.

Some stored items might buy you a few extra days, if you are not murdered for them by starving, roving thieves.

Until the other day I never realized how possible, how totally devastating, and how imminent such an attack may be.  See government study and analysis at http://www.globalsecurity.org/wmd/library/congress/2004_r/04-07-22emp.pdf .

I believe it is the most likely attack scenario against us, and from Iran it may be very soon.  Remember, Iranian President Ahmadinejad recently stated that we would soon cease to be a country?  And I understand Iran has been practicing for such an air burst attack.  Ahmadinejad wants to create havoc and chaos so his Mahdi dude will return.

As Jesus exhorted, pray that you will be accounted worthy to escape the things coming upon the earth and to stand before the Son of Man.  You are made worthy only by His precious blood.  Cast yourself totally on Him and His great sacrifice for you.  He is faithful and true.

Those times may soon be upon us.

Jim