falconer: Thanks so much for clarifying, I had totally missed your point mainly because as a Christian...I am so used to the typical stereo-type based remarks that I always feel on the "defense". Your thoughts were/are appreciated. I do enjoy your posts you know.
Everyone else: I think Heaven will be everything God has said it will be and it will be for those He has said it will be for. I didn't write the Book, I just believe what it says. Regarding the rapture, I've heard pastors argue over whether or not it's Biblical or a possible error in translation. They have differing opinions on whether Christians will be raptured before the Tribulation, mid-way through, or at the end. (The Tribulation period is NOT referred to as "the end of the world".) My opinion is if there is a rapture, whenever it should occur (if it even does) then Christians should make sure they are living their lives the way God intended so as to not be left behind and that includes having some concern and compassion for those that clearly aren't ready for it. I think the "bragging" need to be tossed aside, EVERYONE is only one Jesus away from Hell. Make Jesus really happy and spend more time being an effective witness, and being kind to others. I don't believe in the "once you're saved, you're always saved" theory. It's just my personal thought but I think if a person was sincerely saved in the first place then their life's example would always leave no room for doubt.
If there is no rapture then so what, my words of advice then is the same for everyone and that would be "prepare to die". People make plans for every other stage of their life. Noone is even guaranteed their next breath. If someone is worried about meeting up with the death angel today, then it's a sure sign their "next-life" plan needs some work. Jesus is coming--look busy!