Simply miraculous!
Astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, after being stranded nine months on the International Space Station, have returned home safely.
If any are among us that do not celebrate this feat, it would be astounding to know the reasons why.
As I considered their plight, I must confess, I do not believe I could have maintained my sanity throughout the ordeal if I was aboard.
But what is more intriguing is the universal celebration by all of us that the lives that could have been lost have now come home safely.
Why do we care? Why should we care?
I can think of countless rescues in the news over the years whether a child is stuck in a well, spelunkers are trapped in a cave, or citizens are rescued from torrential flooding. Each of these cause us to lift a collective, “Hooray” when the good news of homecoming arrives. Even the evening news often finishes with a story of redemption or rescue to leave us in a positive frame of mind.
Inherent in our soul is a belief that good should triumph over evil. We hold dear the desire that those in trouble get rescued.
This predisposition causes all manners of altruism and heroism.
If ever there was evidence of God’s benevolence as found in us, it is unconditional sacrifice.
Good people burst into action, step up, and rush in, because we are wired this way.
Moreover, we exemplify Godly patience when we work together to solve the problem of those in peril.
You may have seen Apollo 13. In the movie, dozens upon dozens of gifted people work to bring home the beleaguered spacecraft and its precious cargo of three souls. The triumphant scene of their safe return moves even the most stoic of hearts.
One of the scriptural propositions is that “God is not willing that any should perish”.
What does this mean?
God is in the rescuing business, too. He sees us in the light of eternity and calls out to us saying I am here to help. He knocks at the door of our hearts and says to get out before destruction arrives. He offers spiritual safety and salvation from the condition of mortal sin.
The question is, do you sense the peril around you? Do you see the need for rescue?
My guess is that if you or I needed physical rescue, we would appreciate the help of others.
God’s hope is that you would perceive the same kind of danger spiritually and accept his help—his rescue.
Consider this, “Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.”
Physical rescue means accepting the help of others. The spiritual help we need can only be offered by God.
Reach and be rescued.
Kent Simmons is the pastor of Canyon Community Church in Kingman, AZ.
