As we can see from the case of the Mount Fugen eruption, we need to act on the warning. Remember, at least 15 news reporters and cameramen intent on securing a scoop lost their lives. In fact, one photographer died with his finger on the shutter button of his camera. A volcanologist​—who had remarked, “If one day I have to die, I want it to be at the edge of a volcano”—​lost his life just as he had wished. They were all dedicated to their work and their pursuits. Yet, they paid with their lives​—the price of ignoring the warning.

At Mount Fugen, over a dozen policemen and volunteer firemen were on duty when the superheated volcanic flow hit them. They were trying to help and protect endangered people. They were like well-meaning men and women who are immersed in improving this world. Lofty though their motives may be, “that which is made crooked cannot be made straight.” (Ecclesiastes 1:15) The crooked system of things cannot be straightened out. Is it reasonable to make oneself “a friend of the world” by trying to save a worldwide system that God is determined to eliminate?

Let us not forget the farmers who, after being evacuated, went back to check their fields near Mount Fugen. Probably, they were anxious to return to the “normal” life they used to have. But you realize that their decision to go back was unwise. Perhaps that was not their first attempt to cross the line. They might have stepped into the perilous area just for a little while and nothing happened. The next time, they might have stayed a little longer, and still nothing happened. Likely, they soon became accustomed to crossing the protective line and were emboldened to linger in the endangered area.

Also, think of the three cab drivers who lost their lives waiting for the news reporters and cameramen when the volcanic flow swirled down the slope. Some today may tag along with others who have dared to go back into the world. Whatever the reason, it is clear that being coaxed into returning to the perilous zone is not worth the risk.

All the victims of the eruption of Mount Fugen crossed the safety line and went into the danger zone. Though they expected that the mountain would erupt someday, no one thought that it would be on that day. By observing the sign of the conclusion of the system of things, many expect the day of Jehovah to come sometime but likely not soon. Some even feel that the day could never be “today.” Such an attitude is indeed risky.