The sun is beginning to set as the spotlights center on the man. He gives the mic a few tap, taps, and a, “testing 1, 2, 3.” Satisfied, he begins.

“Brothers and Sisters,” he calls out with raised hands, and the noise from the huge crowd dwindles to a hush. In just a few words I can already gauge the level of charm and charisma this man possesses.

“We gather today under extraordinary circumstances. For two months, our skies were filled with the presence of visitors from beyond our world. These colossal ships hovered above us, sparking wonder and fear in our hearts. And then, in a moment of conflict and confusion, one of these ships was brought down. This alone destroyed half our sacred valley, and displaced so many souls.

“Then, not but a week ago, our land was shaken by a powerful earthquake, a tremor that felt as if the very foundations of our world were being tested. Yes, it’s a disaster up north, as you all well know. It’s devastating everywhere. And sadly, this morning, my team was able to confirm the rumors you’ve all been hearing about the west coast. With little power and most of the world's internet servers in ruin, it was hard to do. But we have indeed lost California, and most of the west to the depths of the ocean.”

There’s gasps and murmuring from the crowd.

“Go see what the situation is around the backside,” says Xeno.

I look around and nod. Then Gus and I start maneuvering our way through the crowd away from the stage following the caution tape.

“Quite down, quiet down. Yes, God’s plan is a mystery to us, but he does have a plan. Remember that. Many have suffered, many have lost, but we stand together now in the wake of these trials, seeking understanding, seeking hope.”

There were shouts of “Amen,” and “hear, hear.”

“For years, we have pondered our place in the universe,” says the preacher. “We looked to the stars and asked, ‘Are we alone?’ And now, it seems, we have our answer. But what does this mean for us, as believers in Christ? What message can we glean from these events?

More shouts erupted from the crowd, most of them indistinguishable.

“In the book of Genesis, it is written: ‘In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.’ These heavens, my friends, are vast and filled with mysteries. We were never alone in God's creation. Our Lord, in His infinite wisdom, made a universe teeming with life—life that we are only now beginning to glimpse.

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“When Jesus walked the earth, He performed miracles, showed us the path to righteousness, and spoke of love, compassion, and forgiveness. He spoke of a kingdom not of this world, a heavenly realm where all of God's creation is united. Perhaps, in these visitors, we see a reflection of that kingdom. Perhaps they, too, are children of the same God, seeking understanding, connection, and peace.”

“Jack, this man is an artist! He speaks so eloquently,” says Xeno. “Listen to the way he forms his words. It’s beautiful. Why couldn’t I be stuck in his arm? Oh, my. If I had tear ducts I’d be crying right now.”

“Today we gather with heavy hearts, mourning the tragic losses around us. Psalm 46:1-3 tells us, ‘God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.’ Jesus also said in John 16:33, ‘In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.’ He understands our pain, walks with us through every trial—even these ones now, and promises a place without pain or sorrow.”

I finally make my way to the back of the crystal, where I’m confronted with even more armed guards and pitched canopies with security personnel.

“It’s surrounded,” I say. “I’m going back around.”

“In this catastrophe,” blares the preacher’s voice, “we must unite as a community, offering prayers, support, and resources to those affected. Romans 8:28 reassures us that ‘in all things God works for the good of those who love Him.’ Even in tragedy, God is at work. Let us pray for those who have lost loved ones and for those bringing aid. Though the earth shakes, our God is unshakeable. Let us find hope and strength in Him, and be a beacon of His light to all.”

An applause erupts from the crowd.

“Jesus spoke of such times, saying, ‘There will be great earthquakes, famines and pestilences in various places, and fearful events and great signs from heaven.’ These are the signs of the times, my friends, the signs that the rapture is drawing near. We must be ready, for soon, for his chosen people will be gathered. He will save us from this world of suffering and bring us into His eternal kingdom.”

I stop at the mention of the rapture and look up. I can see the edge of the stage now. The man is standing on the precipice, arms wide. A screen next to him shows his face, a big fatherly smile across it.

“Jack, did you hear that? He’s talking about the rapture.”

A chill runs down my spine.

“Brothers and sisters, let us not see these events as a cause for fear, but as an opportunity for growth, for understanding, and for the manifestation of God's love and power. Let us be the light in the darkness, the voice of peace in the midst of chaos, and the hands of Christ extended in love and fellowship. The rapture is on its way, and we must be ready.

“So, what is our path forward?” says the preacher. “How do we, as followers of Christ, respond to this new reality?”

He gives the crowd a moment to think. “Well, we can start by giving thanks and singing praises,” he says. “Brother and sisters, let’s give it up for one of my favorite Christian bands coming up next, here to share in Christ’s love with us. I give you: Cain!”

The crowd erupts with applause, for both the orator walking off the stage and the band stepping on.

“Hey, Xeno,” I say.

“What?”

“I think I have an idea.”