Old movies often show someone in trouble who calls, “Mayday! Mayday! Mayday!”

Mayday is an internationally recognized radiotelephone signal for help.

The person, usually on a ship or in an airplane, is in crisis. Problems may include:

• A fire
• Engine trouble
• A collision

If the person in the thick of it survives, it may be on a wing and a prayer.

According to The Free Dictionary, mayday originated with the French phrase, m’aider.

M’aider means “Help me.” Danger threatens.

Mayday now includes other difficulties or dangers.

Most of us have experienced the stress of major and minor disasters.

• Storms destroy property.
• Appliances stop working.
• Cars break down.
• Electronics die.

Mayday should not be confused with May Day, the May 1 springtime celebration.

May 1 is also Labor Day in some countries.  

 When emergencies arise, God directs us to help one another.

God comforts us. Yet, God also guides us to help the hurting. Shared love and support encourage us to get a grip and keep on keeping on.

“The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him” (Nahum 1:7 NIV).

Thanks to Mike Bertoglio for the suggestion.

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