A few years ago I had no idea what a "Go Bag" was. It's basically a bag filled with items to help you survive a disaster. I first heard of it in conjunction with our earthquake training here (Bangladesh sits on a major fault line). We do each have a bag that includes dry clothes, snacks, drinks, a copy of our passport, flashlight, battery charger, etc. The problem is this: unless we carry it constantly, its usefulness is limited to being of value only if the catastrophe happens in our apartment and I can get to our bedroom door. Or, if I opt to carry around a backpack constantly. After the terrorist attacks that occured here on July 1st, we began to upgrade our security in our various ministry areas as well as home. At some point, I came to realize that you can have go bags, attack safe rooms, earthquake drills and all these entail but the only real safety lies in my obedience to Gods call. Matthew 10:28 says: Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Instead, fear the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell. Since July 1st many foreigners have opted to leave Bangladesh. The government desperately is trying to put new security systems in place. Businesses and organizations that relied on foreigners are hurting. When Im in public, Im often asked if Im afraid. Truth be told, I have my moments. And, I have my go bag. But, the only real preparation that works is knowing that no matter where I am, what I do or feel, God is my source. He asks for my obedience. He did not call me to safety. I do not define success. I simply do as He asks knowing that He is faithfully by my side. Thats better than any Go Bag!
-Sharon Smith