SOS or MAYDAY?

      Most everyone knows that SOS and MAYDAY are international emergency signals. But what does SOS mean, and why is MAYDAY used?  By 1904 many trans-Atlantic ships had become equipped with Marconi wireless communication, and radio operators sought a code that everyone would know meant distress at sea.

      CQD was first used in 1904 as "General Call - Distress", but by 1908, SOS was ratified as the official distress signal. Some people still think SOS means "Save Our Ship", but the letters actually have no meaning. The Morse Code for SOS, 3 dots - 3 dashes - 3 dots, came into use because it was simple and unmistakable in its sound. Most everyone can remember its meaning in time of need.

      Mayday has a different root. It was adopted by Frederick Mockford, senior radio officer at London's Croyden Airport. By 1923 there were so many airplane flights from London to Paris that Mockford saw the need for a distress word. "Mayday" was coined from the French word, m'aidez which means "help me."

      All people face periodic life-threatening situations, whether on land, air or sea. God's people since ancient times have always cried out "God help me!" in different ways. David prayed, "Listen to my cry for mercy, Oh Lord. When I am in distress, I call to You because You answer me." (Psalm 86:6-7)

      Going through a crisis can strengthen both our resolve and our faith in God. Troubled times can lead to a stronger faith if we put our lives into God's hands and trust that He will bring us through our troubles in His own way which is always better. 

If today you are in distress, call out to the Lord in prayer.

 

Rev. Bob Tasler, www.bobtasler.com