Grace Community Christian Church

 

Archived Things Above

Burma Jitters (6/29/00)

Aren't you scared about going to Burma?" is probably the most common question I get regarding my upcoming trip.

I must confess, there are some elements that are certainly cause for concern. There's the rebellion on the Thai border. One faction called God's Army is led by the almost godlike, chain-smoking twelve year old twins, who have been in the U.S. news lately. But visitors to Burma are not allowed near that region, so no problem there.

Then there's the military government that is under intense international pressure to allow more freedom to the democracy movement. We will be under almost constant surveillance for fomenting anti-government rhetoric. But while they crack down hard on their own, it's highly unlikely they'd do anything extreme to Westerners, unless we are blatantly calling the people to rebellion. In fact, all we will be talking about is discipleship to Christ. Besides, Burma needs the dollars tourism provides, & jailing tourists might put a kink in that.

Malaria, diarrhea & other illnesses are possible, but I've had my shots & am taking my mefloquine pills, & will have other medicines with me, so that risk should be minimal. Burma is a leading fatal-snakebite country, & that shivers me a tad. But I'll be mostly in built up areas & not out in rice paddies or jungles, so that risk is also minimized. Big airplanes that have departed JFK Airport & ended up in the Atlantic in recent years also whisper dark thoughts to me, but Singapore Air has an excellent safety record & flying is still one of the safest methods of travel. No lost sleep there.

"But," someone asked, "what if something happens to Kim or one of the girls while you're away? What will you do?" Good question. An absolutely legitimate concern. And for me, a no-brainer. I will do what I do with them when I'm here: Trust God. In 1979 I committed my life to Him. In 1980 I committed my marriage to Him. In 1982, '84, & '86, I committed each of my children to Him. He has proven Himself to be absolutely worthy of that trust!

I fully anticipate & hope for a catastrophe-free adventure. But if not, I'd rather stumble through the darkness with my Lord than waltz in the light without Him.

Thanks to everyone for all your support & prayers. You'll be in my heart, & won't we have some stories to share when we meet again?!


Jim Dewar --