In December we will kick off a second campus and the children’s ministry will have a space station theme in the new location. In light of that, the children’s director showed a video from our two church members who happen to be in space at the moment (see earlier post). Both gentlemen spoke of the importance of the volunteers’ service in light of eternity compared to their own fleeting fame. It was really an incredible sight – watching a video from two guys who were literally nowhere on earth. It was cool. But it wasn’t the “moment” for me.
That came when after the video we had another person briefly address the team. She too was an astronaut, quite an accomplished one at that. As she introduced herself, in trying to give context to the space theme of the children’s ministry, she noted her numerous space flights, NASA duties and current space responsibilities. Then she said, “But greater than that I’m a member of the church,” and proceeded to talk about the mission of making people fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ.
I was done. I didn’t need to say anything to these volunteers. They had all they needed in what they had just heard! It actually choked me up to hear a person who many admire and adore for all she has contributed to space exploration clearly communicate that while those things are wonderful they pale in comparison to making disciples. She spoke so matter-of-factly. It was simply true for her. Helping others know Jesus was more important than anything she had done in her spectacular career. It wasn’t that what she had accomplished in a rocket ship was worthless, it just wasn’t greater than her work for the Kingdom.
That was a “moment” for me! All I could think of us was, “Wow! I’m so very glad and incredibly grateful to serve with people like her!”
and everyone who chooses to make your name in Christ known!
