Earlier today I was inspired to take one of my favorite books down from the shelf to see what was written about Rosh HaShanah, the next festival on the calendar celebrated this year beginning sundown September 4.
"The gates of Heaven are opened on Rosh HaShanah so the righteous nation may enter (Isaiah 26:2; Psalm 118:19-20). Because the gates of Heaven are understood to be open on RoshHaShanah, this is further evidence that the rapture (natzal) of the believers in the Messiah Yeshua will take place on Rosh HaShanah. [Excerpt from Ed Chumney's The Seven Festivals of the Messiah, page 115.]
The English word 'rapture' is natzal in Hebrew or harpazo in the Greek language. Coincidentally (?) I stumbled upon this 15 minute youtube video [link], where Chuck Missler shares what his understanding is regarding the timing of the rapture (harpazo). He believes it could indeed occur at ANY TIME and is NOT CONTINGENT ON ANY OTHER EVENT. I love that he encourages people not to take his word for this, but to study it for themselves!
At this point, my understanding leans toward the Messianic belief that we will meet the Lord in the clouds on Rosh HaShanah, the Hebrew new year. This day is referred to as "the day no man knows" (Matthew 24:36) because the new moon marks the first day of the new year and is not known until the new moon is sighted.
As believers in the Messiah, our Jesus, we recognize the appointed seasons and are not in darkness.
But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. I Thessalonians 5:4
Looking for that glorious hope~
P.S. If you are interested in understanding the difference between the RAPTURE and THE DAY OF THE LORD, Mr. Missler gives an excellent explanation at this site [link]. After clicking on the link, click on the audio presentation labeled 'The Rapture'.
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