Taking the Risky Out of Travel

        Wherever we happen to go in the world, whether into areas designated as "safe" or "risky", it is important to our peace of mind and freedom of action that we understand what really constitutes our exemption from harm. We can't do this without bringing God into the picture.

        For centuries, people in dangerous situations have turned to the Bible for reassuring promises of God's protecting care.  One of the most comforting and best-loved promises is the first verse of Psalm ninety-one:  "He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty."

        Many derive from this psalm a feeling of comfort and safety.  But in these times of heightened travel risks we need to have more than just a comfortable feeling about our well-being; we need to know beyond a doubt that we can be safe, wherever we happen to go.

        The teachings of Christian Science have been of great help to me and our family in this regard.  Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures by Mary Baker Eddy points out:  "Understanding the control which Love held over all, Daniel felt safe in the lions' den, and Paul proved the viper to be harmless."  (p. 514)

        The five physical senses tell us that we are subject to the material conditions surrounding us, even to other people who can be put us at risk.  But from the Bible we learn that God, perfect Love, is the one infinite supreme power and that man is the beloved offspring of his Maker, never for a moment separated from God's all-encompassing care.

        Because our true selfhood is inseparable from the almighty Father, there's a very profound sense in which we can say that our safety isn't dependent upon where we are in the world.  Being God's child, you and I are never, for even a second, deprived of our Father's loving care, never out of "the secret place" of spiritual security.  Despite human predictions to the contrary, we can travel any place we need or want to go, aware of always being in God's powerful presence.