This Is a Test

The whole country was prepared for a test. We were warned of a warning. We were on alert for an alert. A few weeks ago, Americans were notified that their cellular devices would receive an emergency alert at approximately 2:20 PM, a testing of the system set in place to warn of approaching disaster. 

At least every three years, the government performs this test that transmits a brief message with big noise across every television channel, radio station, and consumer cell phone. This year, hundreds of millions of cell phones across the country lit up with a startling display of alarm within a thirty-minute period. 

But mine was not one of them.

I was sitting at a conference table, surrounded by colleagues during our quarterly staff meeting. One by one the cellphones around the room joined the chorus of a horror movie soundtrack. But my device sat dark and silent. 

Since we were well aware of this planned test, no one was alarmed. However, I was slightly surprised, and perhaps a little concerned, that I was left out of this exercise in emergency preparedness. I joked that, apparently, there would be no lifeboat for me. I guess I would be going down with the Titanic. I would be carried off by the aliens and zombies. 

A quick Google search later didn’t assuage my confusion either. There were only three reasons one’s phone did not receive this mass message. And mine did not check any of those boxes. My phone was on, it was not in airplane mode, and although not the best signal in that building, I was definitely in the range of a cell tower. 

As someone who thrives on being prepared, I appreciate systems and plans. I am a lover of lists, first aid kits, and purse snacks. I am a fan of backup plans, schedules, and the illusion of being in control. But the fact of the matter is that the words “this is a test” aren’t necessary. I already know that in this life we will “meet trials of various kinds” and that there will be testing of our faith. 

But I also know the One who is in control. And thankfully He is bigger than anything we will face. Bigger than the nationwide emergency alert system. 

And certainly bigger than any icebergs, aliens, or zombies.

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