Astronaut Butch Wilmore was stranded in space for 9 months, while waiting in the International Space Station to return home.
During a post-mission press conference, he highlighted the importance of his faith in Jesus Christ. That faith, Wilmore explained, is fed by the Word of God among the people of God. Regularly. Like a habit.
“Part of what I need, as a believer in Jesus Christ, to continue that focus—a system, day in and day out, because I need that fellowship.”
How do you fellowship with other believers while in space? Wilmore tuned into the online worship service at his church every Sunday.
“Well, goodness, the Word of God … I need it,” he explained. “My pastors are the finest pastors on, or off (in this case) the planet … And to tie in and to worship with my church family was vital.”
So, if Butch Wilmore can get to church from space even when he can’t get home, what does that say about the rest of us still enjoying gravity on earth? Is it possible for us to get to church?
For this Christian man, it is “vital.” Why? Two reasons. It helps him focus on Jesus Christ, and it helps him fellowship with others doing the same thing.
Make church a habit. That means missing church is the exception, not the norm.
“Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching” (Hebrews 10:23-25).
Hold onto hope like an astronaut trusting in the Lord that he’ll be going home. Spur others on by cheering with them and encouraging them in worship—it makes the world a better place. Don’t give up on worship but make it a habit.
Pretty soon, you will find yourself in space, too, on “the Day” when Jesus returns to end this world and take you to heaven. Be ready to meet him there and say, “I’ve been worshipping you, Jesus. Oh, and these are my friends. We made it together.”
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PRAYER: Jesus, you love church, and I love you. Let that love increase my love for church, and the love I share with others at church. Thank you for bringing our astronauts home safely, and for the testimony of faith that inspires me to worship. Amen.
TAKE THE NEXT STEP: How many Sundays a month would you consider regular attendance at church? As in, it’s a habit. 4? 2? Share with a friend.
