What a contrast! There were 102 people who boarded a small sailing vessel; there were over 2000 who boarded a massive ocean liner nearly 300 years later. Humble Pilgrims were passengers on the Mayflower. They knew that this world was not their true home (Heb. 11:13; 1 Pet. 2:11). They were not seeking riches or earthly fame. They merely wanted a land where they could worship God according to the dictates of their own consciences in view of the clear teachings of the Scriptures. They were willing to suffer great hardships in order to gain this freedom.

The passengers on the luxurious Titanic included many rich people who were accustomed to enjoying all earthly comforts. They delighted in the fine things which this world had to offer. Many were godless, and in their false sense of security boasted, "Not even God can sink this ship!"

In spite of the difficulties, God wondrously protected the Pilgrims on the Mayflower. The voyage lasted 65 days with many trials. They met with many fierce storms, but God brought them safely to Cape Cod. Remarkably, only two lives were lost on the trip. One man, John Howland, even fell overboard on a stormy night but was rescued against all odds.  [See The Remarkable Story of John Howland, Mayflower Passenger]

God was with the Mayflower and the tiny ship withstood the seas; the massive Titanic had calm seas and sank. The Mayflower believers knew that God was their refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. The Titanic victims struggling to survive in icy waters heard the valiant witness of John Harper: "Are you saved? Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved!"  [See The Titanic - The Amazing but Little Known Story of John Harper]

Those on the Mayflower trusted in God and were delivered; those on the Titanic proudly trusted in this world system and the majority perished. Dear friend, which vessel represents the object of your trust?