Only the most self-deluded person would bury his head in the sand and ignore such warnings. On the other hand, as we have seen by our study on the earthquake issue, we cannot believe everything we hear. We need to think critically and examine the evidence ourselves. It does not matter if Christ is coming back next year or in a hundred years. For it is at the moment of our death that we come face to face with God.
Natural disasters happen for a reason.
God is not sadistic. He is only trying to catch our attention before it is too late. In other words, the death, or suffering, of a saint may lead to the salvation of others. To fear death and suffering is only for those who are not willing to go on to Christ. Therefore, Brothers and Sisters, take St. Cyprian's words to heart.