There has been a lot of speculation about the end times lately, especially in light of recent storms. I saw firsthand the devastation and carnage that accompanied the fierce, deadly tornadoes that swept across the South and the Midwest this spring.

I've seen lots of disasters in my lifetime, but the scenes that I witnessed in Alabama and Missouri were among the most horrific I've encountered anywhere.

Many are asking if the seemingly growing numbers of such catastrophes could be an indication that the return of Christ is drawing nearer. Jesus said that such tragedies--in addition to wars and persecution--are indeed the "beginning of birth pains" (Matthew 24:8), and these certainly appear to be increasing in frequency and intensity.

Just a few months ago, the owner of a Christian radio network forecast that May 21 would be "Judgment Day" for the world. I was amazed at the extensive national coverage given to this prediction, even though the Bible says that only the Father in Heaven knows the exact date of the Savior's return. It was hard to view a news program or read a newspaper without a prominent reference to this event.

While I'm grateful that there has been some renewed discussion given to the return of the King, I'm afraid that such a superficial focus can divert our attention from the primary thrust of Scripture regarding His coming--are we living holy, godly lives on earth, diligently waiting and working until He comes?