NOT EVERYONE IS AFRAID of the coming millennium. In my hometown, it's not unusual to see a bumper sticker announcing, "In case of rapture, this vehicle will be unmanned." There are quite a few devout Christians who anticipate the coming of Jesus to be the true millennial event, regardless of the year. This is a cause for their rejoicing, and is looked forward to with eager anticipation.
The word rapture refers to a transporting of someone from one place to another, especially to heaven. It is used specifically to refer to Jesus' prophecy as told in Matthew, chapter 24 and Luke, chapter 17. Put simply in Matthew: "So shall also the coming of the Son of man be. Then shall two be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left. Two women shall be grinding at the mill; the one shall be taken, and the other left. Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come."
Matt. 24: 39-42. Many faithful Christians believe the Bible is prophesying that when Jesus comes again to earth, those who are saved will be transported to heaven without passing through the experience of death, just as Jesus ascended. Those who are not saved will be left behind.
Jesus assured the disciples he would never leave them.
