The Wired Word for 02092025 - CourtneyR.dev's 2nd Brain

The Wired Word for 02/09/2025 ![rw-book-cover](https://readwise-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/static/images/article2.74d541386bbf.png) ## Metadata - Author: [[The Wired Word]] - Full Title: The Wired Word for 02/09/2025 - Category: #articles - Document Note: --- tags: [#air_disaster, #investigation, #faith, #judgment, #grief] - #air_disaster - #investigation - #faith - #judgment - #grief Author: The Wired Word Team Source: The Wired Word - February 9, 2025 Reference: [Original Article](#) date created: 2025-02-07 16:00 --- # ✈️ Crash of Jet and Helicopter Raises Many Questions ## 📖 Table of Contents - [📝 Summary](#-summary) - [📖 Main Content](#-main-content) - [🗒️ Notes](#-notes) - [📖 References](#-references) - [🗣️ Paraphrase](#-paraphrase) - [📰 Newsletter](#-newsletter) - [✅ Action Items](#-action-items) - [🧪 Hypotheses](#-hypotheses) - [📊 Methodology](#-methodology) - [❓ Questions](#-questions) - [🔮 Future Research](#-future-research) - [💡 Implications](#-implications) - [🧠 Learning Styles Assessment](#-learning-styles-assessment) - [📊 Accessibility Assessment](#-accessibility-assessment) - [🌍 DEIB Assessment](#-deib-diversity-equity-inclusion-and-belonging-assessment) - [✅ Logical Validity](#-logical-validity) - [🔍 DARVO Analysis](#-darvo-analysis) - [🔍 SEO Evaluation](#-seo-evaluation) - [🎯 Conclusion](#-conclusion) --- ## 📝 Summary: A tragic mid-air collision occurred between an **American Airlines Flight 5342** and a **UH-60 Black Hawk military helicopter** over the **Potomac River near Washington, D.C.**, resulting in the deaths of all **67 individuals aboard** both aircraft. Among the victims were top figure skaters and military personnel. The **National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB)** has launched an investigation into the crash, focusing on **air traffic control communication, flight altitudes, and possible pilot errors.** The article explores: - The **public's rush to judgment** before a full investigation is completed. - The role of **assumptions in crisis situations** and how they affect decision-making. - Whether the "need to know" is **contrary to faith and patience.** - **Biblical perspectives** on trusting God's timing rather than seeking immediate answers. --- ## 📖 Main Content: ### 🗒️ Notes: - **The Crash Incident** - Occurred on **January 29, 2025**, near **Reagan National Airport (DCA)**. - Involved **American Airlines Flight 5342 (regional jet)** and a **Black Hawk military helicopter**. - Killed **67 people**, including prominent figure skaters and three Army personnel. - The accident shut down **Reagan National Airport** for nearly **14 hours**. - **Key Investigation Points** - **Air traffic controllers** changed the plane’s landing approach at the last minute. - **Black Hawk pilot acknowledged** seeing the plane but did not respond to a final instruction. - Investigators are considering **pilot error, miscommunication, and air traffic control staffing issues**. - **Victims** - Included **Jinna Han and Spencer Lane**, U.S. figure skaters. - Coaches **Vadim Naumov and Evgenia Shishkova**, former **world champions**. - Military personnel included **Capt. Rebecca Lobach, CWO Andrew Eaves, and Staff Sgt. Ryan O'Hara**. - **Public Reaction and Rush to Judgment** - Early **assumptions blamed the helicopter for flying too high**. - Concerns about **air traffic control understaffing** leading to errors. - Officials caution against speculation until the **full NTSB report is completed**. - **Faith and the "Need to Know"** - People struggle with **uncertainty and unanswered questions**. - The Bible encourages **trusting in God's plan** rather than demanding immediate explanations. - Examples include **Genesis 15:6** (Abraham’s faith) and **2 Corinthians 5:6-7** (walking by faith, not sight). --- ## 📖 References: - **National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB)** Investigation Reports. - **CBS News** coverage of the crash aftermath. - **Associated Press (AP)** articles on air traffic control concerns. - **NPR Reports** on restricted helicopter flights post-crash. --- ## 🗣️ Paraphrase: 1. **Original:** "Many questions are being asked. Investigators have recovered flight data but will take months to determine a cause." **Paraphrased:** Authorities have retrieved key flight data, but a full explanation will take months of analysis. 2. **Original:** "The need for quick answers is at odds with the patience required in faith." **Paraphrased:** Our desire for immediate explanations often conflicts with the patience that faith teaches. --- ## 📰 Newsletter: 📰 **Rushing to Judgment in a Crisis** This week's tragic air disaster near **Washington, D.C.** has left us grappling with grief and uncertainty. While authorities investigate, many rush to assign blame. What does this say about our need for immediate answers? Can faith offer a different perspective? Read more: [The Wired Word](#). --- ## ✅ Action Items: - **For Investigators**: Ensure a **thorough, unbiased** review of the causes. - **For Journalists**: Report responsibly, avoiding **early speculation**. - **For Faith Leaders**: Encourage patience and **trust in uncertainty**. --- ## 🧪 Hypotheses: - If **air traffic controllers** were understaffed, they may have **miscommunicated flight paths**. - The **need for immediate closure** after a crisis **shapes public perception**, often prematurely. --- ## 📊 Methodology: - **Review flight recordings** to determine communication breakdowns. - **Compare past air disasters** with similar ATC (Air Traffic Control) errors. --- ## ❓ Questions: - How does the **desire for quick answers** affect public perception of disasters? - What role should **faith and patience** play in **crisis response**? --- ## 🔮 Future Research: - The impact of **ATC understaffing on flight safety**. - Psychological studies on **why people rush to judgment after crises**. --- ## 💡 Implications: - Could lead to **policy changes** in ATC staffing. - Could **reshape crisis communication strategies**. --- ## 🧠 Learning Styles Assessment: - **Logical Learners**: Strong **investigative structure**. - **Social Learners**: Faith discussions **encourage debate**. - **Verbal Learners**: Well-written, accessible **language**. --- ## 📊 Accessibility Assessment: - **Needs an audio version** for greater accessibility. - **Lacks alt-text** for images in news articles. --- ## 🌍 DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) Assessment: - **Limited perspectives** on how different **cultural or religious groups process grief**. - **Improve**: Include **voices from affected families** in different communities. --- ## ✅ Logical Validity: - **Strengths**: - Strong use of **facts and official reports**. - Avoids **baseless speculation**. - **Fallacies Detected**: - **Hasty Generalization**: Assuming the **helicopter pilot was at fault** before the investigation is complete. --- ## 🔍 DARVO Analysis: - **Deny**: Officials **deny ATC understaffing played a role** before full review. - **Attack**: Some **blame the pilot prematurely** without data. - **Reverse Victim & Offender**: Public frustration **shifts blame to controllers** rather than procedural failures. --- ## 🔍 SEO Evaluation: - **Title Optimization**: Clear but **lacks urgency**. - **Keywords**: Could include **"air disaster investigation"**. --- ## 🎯 Conclusion: This tragedy reveals how quickly **the public rushes to judgment** after disasters. While authorities investigate, **faith offers an alternative response**—one of patience and trust in the unknown. - Document Tags: [[politics & society]] [[Politics & Society]] - Summary: The deadly crash of a commercial jet and a military helicopter over the Potomac River has left people shocked by the tragedy and curious about the reasons for the crash. Dear Class Members, The deadly crash of a commercial jet and a military helicopter over the Potomac River has left people shocked by the tragedy and curious about the reasons for the crash. Because an air disaster raises so many questions, this installment of *The Wired Word* will focus on why we often rush to judgment, why we make assumptions, why concrete answers are so important to us, and the question of whether the "need to know" is contrary to faith. ![](https://www.thewiredword.com/_img/tww_logo_email.jpg) **Crash of Jet and Helicopter Raises Many Questions*****The Wired Word*** **for the Week of February 9, 2025** **In the News** American Airlines Flight 5342 collided with an Army helicopter at about 9 p.m. on Wednesday, January 29, near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA). The accident sent the two aircraft into the Potomac River, killing all 67 aboard. The collision was the deadliest air crash in the United States in more than 20 years. This airspace is some of the most tightly controlled in the world, located just three miles south of the White House and the United States Capitol. The accident caused the airport to be shut down until 11 a.m. the next day, as rescue teams searched for survivors. The focus of the mission quickly changed from rescue to recovery, as bodies were pulled out of the river. According to *CBS News,* at least 42 bodies had been found as of Saturday. By Tuesday, the remains of all 67 had been recovered. Among the victims were a number of top figure skaters from Russia and the United States, including six people with ties to the Skating Club of Boston. Athletes Jinna Han and Spencer Lane, along with skating coaches Vadim Naumov and Evgenia Shishkova, were on board the flight. The group was returning home from the National Development Camp, which was held in connection with the recent United States Figure Skating Championships in Wichita. Spencer Lane's father said that his 16-year-old son was a "force of nature" who started figure skating just three years ago and had progressed quickly. Naumov and Shishkova, born in Russia, were figure skaters who won the 1994 World Figure Skating Championship and had been coaching at the Skating Club of Boston. According to *NPR*, the crew of the Black Hawk helicopter included Capt. Rebecca Lobach, 28, from Durham, North Carolina; fellow pilot Chief Warrant Officer Andrew Eaves, 39, of Great Mills, Maryland; and crew member Staff Sgt. Ryan O'Hara, 28, of Lilburn, Georgia. Lobach had 500 hours of flight time, considered normal, while Eaves had 1,000 hours, deemed experienced. Kansas Sen. Roger Marshall said in a statement, "Tonight, we received devastating news of what can only be described as nothing short of a nightmare. ... My prayer is that God wraps his arms around each and every victim, and that he continues to be with their families." Since the crash, officials have been probing the cause. *The Associated Press* reports that the American Airlines regional jet had left Wichita, Kansas, with 60 passengers and four crew, and was preparing to land at DCA. The UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter, with its three soldiers, was on a training exercise out of Fort Belvoir, Virginia. The sun had set but the skies were clear. A few minutes before the regional jet was scheduled to land, air traffic controllers asked its pilots if they could use a shorter runway. The pilots agreed. Controllers cleared the landing, and the plane shifted its course to the new runway. Less than 30 seconds before the collision, an air traffic controller asked the helicopter if it had the jet in sight. The military pilot responded yes. Then the controller made another call to the helicopter, apparently telling the helicopter to pass behind the jet. There was no reply and the two aircraft collided. So, what caused the crash? Many questions are being asked. Investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have recovered the cockpit voice recorder and flight data recorder from the plane, along with comparable devices from the helicopter. Crash investigations normally take between 12 and 18 months, and on Thursday, investigators told reporters they would not speculate on the cause. Federal investigators will analyze communication between the two aircraft and air traffic controllers, as well as pilot actions and aircraft altitudes. One key question is focused on how high the helicopter was flying. Early indications are that the chopper was flying higher than it should have been at the time of the crash. On *Fox News*, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said on Friday that the chopper's maximum permissible altitude was 200 feet. Jonathan Koziol, chief of staff for Army aviation, said that investigators need to analyze flight data before making a conclusion about whether the helicopter went higher than it should have. Hegseth said the Army also wants to know if the helicopter crew was using night vision goggles. On the one hand, such goggles can be a help with night flying; on the other hand, they can be problematic around the bright lights of an airport. Another question revolves around how many air traffic controllers were working at the time of the crash. Two sources told *CBS News* that only one air traffic control worker was managing the helicopters and some planes from the DCA tower at the time of the collision, a job normally done by two people. At least one air traffic controller who was on duty has been interviewed, and NTSB member Todd Ingram said that interviews were ongoing. The NTSB will look at whether staffing played a role in the collision. "It's not uncommon for air traffic controllers to combine positions based on the workload at the existing time," said Robert Sumwalt, a former chairman of the agency. "I think what's important here is to let the NTSB sort through the details and figure out if this had any effect at all on the operations." More on this story can be found at these links: [What We Know About the American Airlines Plane and Army Helicopter Crash Over D.C.'s Potomac River.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPBxnHMU9QMICZ4NjuSVxEvL5RDbrFEBtH5kyqV-2FIi2dW4QRcARuRIBpv3rumHo1lSRBuJ5aaQukdQsO7vkW0xAoCtj6t-2F5gU0IAJ7gelbzcI2yUU_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZ1gnUq6oR-2B6yrH44cssUs-2F0an-2BOK3DGlj-2BPnIdRMR-2Fj1ugpOgMbnBOF5PIWAF4dafe9Bxk4xNjoQl9pUIVddZvHI08ocmNqP2zm9i3NzlhxahX62DJ-2F7F0sCtm6U9OlJlkFMflxB-2FK9OkvxYDcW-2BFledlJY-2FnMhY-2FVh-2BdUTuiaK6yNyKtW-2FRWeUWsOej1r6eZRF4FJ-2FV71qWMFuETt-2BV6kn1pMOXw5BaJ-2FCQMooDgswXN1319O9cl9HaIsjU1ZJl2UyAD8kMniO7qkwKcnZfJc-3D) [*CBS News*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPBxnHMU9QMICZ4NjuSVxEvL5RDbrFEBtH5kyqV-2FIi2dW4QRcARuRIBpv3rumHo1lSRBuJ5aaQukdQsO7vkW0xAoCtj6t-2F5gU0IAJ7gelbzcIYBe3_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZ1gnUq6oR-2B6yrH44cssUs-2F0an-2BOK3DGlj-2BPnIdRMR-2Fj1ugpOgMbnBOF5PIWAF4daSuW0cyEJCwki-2FeLPknmKq5jOc6oZwo7-2BiwC5nCdCr-2BwyrWh2Gw88-2F5in2TiC-2FjN7CMwDplHarjKpXiJq-2BjV4T-2FzvC7AkuOeG7H-2FMIBIiGX-2Fj1Wi74TygPCGKVMw4nTyHA-2BLC2BJ2TJeTgLDf5-2F30vjmj6oUhV6s8C-2FJwZIJaBneptUI-2FNuN65u8SoMk9yztynTc7ZOJF78wf9Ri7TIageM-3D) [Third Black Hawk Crew Member Involved in Deadly Crash Near DC Airport Identified.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPHqYzlFhngTMk0G9-2F-2BQ1rl8mPXx9HfOjQJ44vNJKGwtJKf-2BUMTKZ02rS7PbJeiEdHduRAkRsQmfJYfUp9NqMDt2H0Vk3DPZZynUgZou42Xm2GGT93td0h-2FRN9jwqqHaB8Q-3D-3DjgQw_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZ1gnUq6oR-2B6yrH44cssUs-2F0an-2BOK3DGlj-2BPnIdRMR-2Fj1ugpOgMbnBOF5PIWAF4daeJJOmTeWYIxGHkVgEvfPRqpmiruRcoXOhPh4bioPA9M9Hz7-2Fy03bbj7PQPG36iPm-2FK2Z60aEHK4eHfGomMhc1X6ju8myMa-2FL861p3u969LDL-2BPHB4s4l7wrlcvaJ4HYaiuZDY-2Bc2F8KSnSUdAZbNMhtN-2F1RseHWL8FhpjxXClbWWcNYwDg25nAkhaJpwrtk4MoXlC5GWcBepmZosumvgK4-3D) [*NPR*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPHqYzlFhngTMk0G9-2F-2BQ1rl8mPXx9HfOjQJ44vNJKGwtJKf-2BUMTKZ02rS7PbJeiEdHduRAkRsQmfJYfUp9NqMDt2H0Vk3DPZZynUgZou42Xm2GGT93td0h-2FRN9jwqqHaB8Q-3D-3DW8pH_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZ1gnUq6oR-2B6yrH44cssUs-2F0an-2BOK3DGlj-2BPnIdRMR-2Fj1ugpOgMbnBOF5PIWAF4daW4GGMQINd70gVv0Vn023EYMs4bznVZI7foEKLXwDh-2FiUm51aIVJpz9bK435kI3F3Xbg0Mo2FkaMelCOR6oRI5oKSZ-2FXBrrQL1Mr7sql7AoU1A2pXCFanQgefmld8zSXQRa6d0-2BfxYxNsu5ZU3n2NLLb7uLayTbX3Oi9y7yEYI6RAZ1wAh-2FVnlrZu5VeVL6JAs-2BClLMmNwtluk-2FGkZjIRdQ-3D) [What Is Known About the Fatal Crash of](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPO29U5mpkJW4NorWG1C-2Fci2GaaRNNWy-2FRQr9EFlJBNFPnGZf_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZ1gnUq6oR-2B6yrH44cssUs-2F0an-2BOK3DGlj-2BPnIdRMR-2Fj1ugpOgMbnBOF5PIWAF4daX-2FdmtQejzzWxwPFJtvvvgyN3RtDHZ9S-2Br2QPNz7X9ctYiVFXISud7ALE0bwpjoChDOHYQNAz-2BVDgE6WjAho-2BdWQvMnzSQsSrUvUGnlm5Np6CloTZ6aO70VH3qb10nHe9at7tciGnxmbpE6aQn3KxRzuqhrwhPzPQ8gWG-2FAg62fQdB-2BgjBh41hFqHcVm3LthJEdC4FlgPSBxlUfEpuMqwrc-3D) [a](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPO29U5mpkJW4NorWG1C-2Fci2GaaRNNWy-2FRQr9EFlJBNFP2awA_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZ1gnUq6oR-2B6yrH44cssUs-2F0an-2BOK3DGlj-2BPnIdRMR-2Fj1ugpOgMbnBOF5PIWAF4daZi2ZLYZ84TcJF9PQxGwWrR6bQIpqFc4bw5YCSPS7oIjkeLajM-2BxfHz3LGZ52nl-2Fp4EKWBXg5I4DfUD4xWCDQ2djH65f7SOp1bQwytQsfRutio77coi5ZX-2BxDSY6ojdWlLFZ3chr67zireiR70qnGqxZZ3gOoYN2WkFr6HQWb4CxnnY8bSJHW1z2H9GeHTawNpvz8EdiYacn7BsIJefUpl8-3D) [Plane and Army Chopper.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPO29U5mpkJW4NorWG1C-2Fci2GaaRNNWy-2FRQr9EFlJBNFPhTml_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZ1gnUq6oR-2B6yrH44cssUs-2F0an-2BOK3DGlj-2BPnIdRMR-2Fj1ugpOgMbnBOF5PIWAF4daRTwFuZj3r01MlqJNKrrPJMuZSJSGrjIIxI-2F231h6oEVq5PTzpASYBt7mIxfAyBf-2F3453sv1mQQUMVbJ2unxyUYxV7rkQSLER0i5PMv4Qsn8tZDpr0vz4cH6gQJNqGUVaG4u5GcibjQNj-2BckLiLSP9W6jx56DvodwVG539gLVyT9-2FgHs1hVp9g-2F-2BYqeh0xbMr59gcwt2bs9PmEx-2BWVr9QGQ-3D) [*Associated Press*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPO29U5mpkJW4NorWG1C-2Fci2GaaRNNWy-2FRQr9EFlJBNFPkGaU_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZ1gnUq6oR-2B6yrH44cssUs-2F0an-2BOK3DGlj-2BPnIdRMR-2Fj1ugpOgMbnBOF5PIWAF4daYkedjIUBAyRmsqoZtHr-2FSRQ1-2Bg42DBUZDfYUm8m7JGISVPZF3aZ5m-2FUFp7-2BGhKEqY9I5IfHZNkqfre-2BqmiQgCmjITupcl0gBrAYQDTdHZrn8x-2FlGyWTdAeJqJZR8nKIUTWDkuedJRFDkMVE2BVhDZUa53-2FLNMCAusbxnq056yh6rc6WXfLFgzXHWMk2w-2BWqtIFa0WqYutf60yvgBIar3OI-3D) **Applying the News Story** Kansas Sen. Roger Marshall was right to say, "My prayer is that God wraps his arms around each and every victim, and that he continues to be with their families." After a horrible air disaster, prayer for the victims and their families is a faithful response. Why, then, do we rush to judgment, make assumptions, and demand immediate, concrete answers? Discuss whether a "need to know" is contrary to faith. **The Big Questions** 1. After the crash, people rushed to judge the crew of the helicopter and the air traffic controllers. Why do people rush to judgment? Why is it so hard to wait for the investigation to be complete? When have you witnessed, or been part of, a rush to judgment? What was the outcome? 2. Many have made the assumption that the helicopter was flying too high and/or slightly off course, the air traffic control room was understaffed, or the helicopter pilots were (or were not) wearing night vision goggles. When do assumptions lead to incorrect conclusions? How are people affected? When have you experienced this? 3. Shock and grief have been natural outcomes of this air disaster. Why do people have trouble accepting these reactions? What spiritual and emotional healing can happen when we allow ourselves to invite God into the pain? How does your church community help you with this? 4. After an air crash, quick answers can sometimes improve safety. When is it appropriate to demand immediate answers? When, if ever, have you done this, and what happened? In what cases is it better to be patient and wait? When have you been forced to wait for an answer, and how did you handle the delay? What was the value of the answer you finally received? 5. Is a "need to know" contrary to faith? TWW Team Member Ako Cromwell wonders whether the rush to find answers is a desire for a "quick closure." Is this desire at odds with the Christian faith? Is it reasonable to ask people to be patient when they are feeling great pain? When have you laid aside a question and put your trust in God? What did the experience teach you? How did you grow in faith during that time of not knowing? **Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope**Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion: **Genesis 15:6***And [Abram] believed the LORD, and the LORD reckoned it to him as righteousness.* (For context, read [Genesis 15:1-6](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxdxvwvUIbrGNsYJ-2B9LkHJNZIjdXX5YS7vXZtjGlhPGPemkPbuoGMQDYLjEPldKee4Fvtu_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZ1gnUq6oR-2B6yrH44cssUs-2F0an-2BOK3DGlj-2BPnIdRMR-2Fj1ugpOgMbnBOF5PIWAF4daZAdtMyN3G9-2FeCrC4Wy1YtB1IYn9yHvUm0kChtAK-2Ft6xgqbNFU-2B0BAwBWkQDb8JSRcs2c387-2FkBLcMl1YfpTe-2Bo3WGFLJdbb2AQJ9p-2Bi8eXU827d1eL5mWUzHORYxSMnXdoghC3uCenCN1WMY8e-2FzpVw7envWvgSpQKcojeh-2BNIWBOYlZMPX1eNSpjpEIaAnIs-2FU1QsYPr31htoCK49KZVs-3D).) Abram was challenged by God to go from his home in Haran to the land of Canaan (12:1). Later, God made a covenant with Abram that reaffirmed God's promise to bless him with land in this new country, as well as offspring to inherit the land. Abram wondered how this could be possible, saying to God, "You have given me no offspring, so a slave born in my house is to be my heir" (15:3). Abram made the assumption that his only heir would be a slave in his house. But the word of the LORD came to Abram, "This man shall not be your heir; no one but your very own issue shall be your heir" (v. 4). God invited Abram to go outside and count the stars, and said that Abram's descendants would be as numerous as the stars. Genesis tells us that Abram "believed the LORD, and the LORD reckoned it to him as righteousness." Abram, whose name was changed to Abraham, was made right with God by his willingness to believe God. In the New Testament, the apostle Paul picked up on this and said, "Abraham believed God, and it was reckoned to him as righteousness" (Romans 4:3). The Protestant Reformer Martin Luther made Paul's insight the center of his theology, one which asserted that we are saved by the grace of God through our faith in Jesus. > **Questions:** When have you made an assumption about the future that turned out to be incorrect? How did God lead you to the truth? When have you chosen to believe God in the face of an uncertain future? How did this choice affect your relationship with God and with the people around you? **John 18:38***Pilate asked [Jesus], "What is truth?"* (For context, read [John 18:33-40](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxIZQdl9o19AaGMoRwm2CB4lNlpDhD2NaLiJ8eadY7HL1DWWRSVco9uzjH4oh5TBFs9XMu_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZ1gnUq6oR-2B6yrH44cssUs-2F0an-2BOK3DGlj-2BPnIdRMR-2Fj1ugpOgMbnBOF5PIWAF4daTPWGOtSxe-2BMH5MdgJB8281u2ocFfVkktnwbN6zM-2BI2YJ9Z8ZRRDI0NSJEzbEzZLSJYByRCz-2BBv5JFvHubEPQjb8NN-2Fd3wvLPNJcIf0lWhhPlvxV1aRi1OrtLB3-2Bs9suZdpyDZcq3acYp-2BSVF4msW8-2BFwL7prYHsiu3zsQivnrjeglK7kh-2B6ibgh-2F01fRxmTXu1yiStFFnz65AotpLIbfXo-3D).) Jesus has been brought to Pilate, the Roman governor, because only the Roman Empire can perform an execution. The Jewish priests want Jesus to die, but they do not have the authority to kill him. The governor asks Jesus, "Are you the King of the Jews?" (18:33). This is the only thing that Pilate cares about, because a Jewish king would be a threat to Roman authority. If Jesus says "yes," then he will be convicted of treason against Rome and given a death sentence. But Jesus is too smart to respond with a simple yeah or nay. Like an experienced trial lawyer, Jesus says, "My kingdom does not belong to this world" (v. 36). Jesus hints that he may be a king, since he speaks of his kingdom, but he does not describe a kingdom that would fit any Roman understanding. Pilate presses him on his kingship and asks, "So you are a king?" (v. 37). Jesus dodges again. "You say that I am a king. For this I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to my voice" (v. 37). Jesus has come to invite people to enter into a relationship with him, by listening to his voice and belonging to the truth. Then Pilate asks, "What is truth?" Jesus says nothing. He simply stands there as the one who is "the way and the truth and the life" (14:6). The answer to the question is his own life, death and resurrection. > **Questions:** How do you understand Jesus to be the answer to the question, "What is truth?" In a world defined by facts and figures, what is important about this kind of truth? Why do people "need to know" Jesus in a way that they do not need other answers? **2 Corinthians 5:6-7***So we are always confident, even though we know that while we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord -- for we walk by faith, not by sight.* (For context [2 Corinthians 4:1](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzx5N3asDrM8aLtAZM6HVDt1b-2BGI1AhATEKB33r4f0aJcuteQyNLaWsJdivNkYOk9mRq-2BjNNOjQ6FDKC7NsHTXlNA-3D-3DPXH6_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZ1gnUq6oR-2B6yrH44cssUs-2F0an-2BOK3DGlj-2BPnIdRMR-2Fj1ugpOgMbnBOF5PIWAF4daS2A9dFfw8RPoHyh7lsK6ZBSeVLNryK3a8s94Dtn-2FtzGIGTI0QlciVzCZFJjFFy0tblvgQbieQKq96BtjFUbLm1lNZ-2FEAKSUh0rS7-2BO-2BwYFWd0TTU5gVRyf-2FdeUOfhFpGiw2szFHYRnVyDi8xSGY9Gai51Xht8e4u-2FHGDKfl8zeRaYj5XaJd9sL4lngKauVlLVKRj-2FYS8lzHHXbsgV4P0t0-3D)[6--5:](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzx5N3asDrM8aLtAZM6HVDt1b-2BGI1AhATEKB33r4f0aJcuteQyNLaWsJdivNkYOk9mRq-2BjNNOjQ6FDKC7NsHTXlNA-3D-3DYj97_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZ1gnUq6oR-2B6yrH44cssUs-2F0an-2BOK3DGlj-2BPnIdRMR-2Fj1ugpOgMbnBOF5PIWAF4daeNyMZGtvcVzWdc04cDF0DvieHstROuYKj9qntu-2Fy09uUt-2BfJ6stAJIUVFclYC3HQ2GukiiHzFkTuFSkEhpiLM5Gni5vZi17dqYRvdpPbtyauVijYLyfrgSzrgKfMXIRdmeTrzVb911heU5hI7JLRMKCamGnLaHIfyHV31X9VjR2seCvp-2BfGH5iJwYj2amSwn84O80gJmQFKSm9Oxjm669U-3D)[10](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzx5N3asDrM8aLtAZM6HVDt1b-2BGI1AhATEKB33r4f0aJcuteQyNLaWsJdivNkYOk9mRq-2BjNNOjQ6FDKC7NsHTXlNA-3D-3DI_iU_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZ1gnUq6oR-2B6yrH44cssUs-2F0an-2BOK3DGlj-2BPnIdRMR-2Fj1ugpOgMbnBOF5PIWAF4daQkvrSGu54nBQb5Yfd0x-2ByllklvIElLYL4vIl17Mdq9nNq0eu63DsZQuT4ycb-2BXlJdQgU-2BTA7CErzjP72Frze2ej56-2Bu1WqPqFMnFzu9U9EGHfXMZQDVXuKnFM1Tf8Pi8gJugfaia836HjTpMK8kuWxWqsXc6y28A5hapJ4Tgbau3JeDgCoGd5AUzcd26fL6ZqIjg0AdK0V9hkmAXxC7Mx0-3D).) Paul's second letter to the Corinthians was written after he became estranged from this community. Accusations had been made against the ministry of Paul and Timothy, so he defended their work by saying, "we look not at what can be seen but at what cannot be seen, for what can be seen is temporary, but what cannot be seen is eternal" (4:18). His focus on what is divine and eternal led him to offer a line that is often read at funerals today: "For we know that, if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens" (5:1). He knew that the destruction of our "earthly tent" would be upsetting, but it would be replaced by a "building from God," a resurrection body. This means that in our earthly existence, "we walk by faith, not by sight," living with trust in God's promises, even when we cannot see physical evidence or understand the full picture. In all things, says Paul, "we make it our aim to be pleasing to [the Lord]" (v. 9). > **Questions:** When have you been challenged to walk by faith, not by sight? What did you learn on this journey? Why is it important to act in ways that are pleasing to the Lord, even when we cannot see the path that lies ahead? **Hebrews 11:1***Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.* (For context, read [Hebrews 11:1-12](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxfhOLPuUklFplPPD2VWbSPMPf3pXT9f5VSoAzPPUXLxfH3Cv8tc89ZjBkA-2B-2B7yEKTn2tV_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZ1gnUq6oR-2B6yrH44cssUs-2F0an-2BOK3DGlj-2BPnIdRMR-2Fj1ugpOgMbnBOF5PIWAF4daWUauMmDgRcLKyxN6rr-2FJwVBUEvmhrRFjtS7ptIsRnKiguqCXHRgd5RUiCg50D8o3R01YiD-2FGWT2ve9Xwy-2FZnmETRb6P9RyfoyRHSMkljhoTombKspRGyJXqzniOURbb9L-2B7VXIPRS9X4Gx-2BBcF0rqV-2BWlcO6hLxOi-2Ff5gLbkt1e0qU98ke3JEnRQfta-2Ffzv4ocI7C7DRnIshIdQ9BFhxE4-3D).) The letter to the Hebrews is the first of the General Epistles, a set of letters addressed to a general audience, unlike the letters of the apostle Paul. Hebrews was written to Christians who had grown up Jewish, featuring elements that were connected to the Hebrew scriptures. In the 11th chapter, the author lifts up examples of enduring faith from the history of Israel. The author uses repetition of the phrase "By faith" (v. 4) to describe the ways in which Abel, Enoch, Noah and Abraham received approval from God. Faith also enabled Abraham, "with Sarah's involvement," to receive "power of procreation, even though he was too old, because he considered him faithful who had promised" (v. 11). In all these examples, "faith is the assurance of things hoped for," the confident belief in things we cannot see and yet hope to be true. > **Questions:** When have you had confident belief in God's future, and what was the result? When have you struggled with this? What helps you to live by faith, and wait for God's future to be revealed? **For Further Discussion** 1. Two days after the collision over the Potomac River, [six passengers traveling on a medical jet were killed](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPBxnHMU9QMICZ4NjuSVxEvLY1n9jYinUYc9wGM-2FPvgtZfCYXgK9Up1-2FWa3BvRfPHyhLc8NzbUZzsNBAMWQb-2B-2FE5g6NWvWzfR38buOnV76rIbZp7G3AXnll9xWHyIn8eIpyOKJ7yARX5LeWMRM2ZpBxk-3Dpift_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZ1gnUq6oR-2B6yrH44cssUs-2F0an-2BOK3DGlj-2BPnIdRMR-2Fj1ugpOgMbnBOF5PIWAF4dadBr0-2Bdd8jIqBYPcTHexCUIc6yr9G7-2F2OTt1q5GuNbIeMJm3ADP5g5Ndnj9c99Ueydb3FHxrw0-2Fd33K-2FQILPaCz1MHnPRGobEELmpC1MgtSxDLufm3s-2F9t-2FvoTwW6XdVVCrl80CXs0xXYyV-2FwEnqoLxQYegK47-2BxJrm93NN1n5Z11-2FMSijjzaN8x8SNMJJlzzDTqm3VVcw7VVXLqfL-2FKsqg-3D) when it crashed in Northeast Philadelphia. The Learjet 55 aircraft victims included an 11-year-old pediatric patient who recently finished treatment at Shriners Children's Hospital. *CBS News* reports that "the jet climbed about 1,500 feet into the air before taking a slight right turn, then a slight left turn and then began a steep descent before it crashed." The NTSB is investigating. Does this week of air disasters make you more afraid to fly? Why or why not? Where do you put your faith when you get on an airplane? 2. Regarding rushing to judgment, TWW consultant James Gruetzner writes, "A quick rush to looking at immediate causes can prevent future accidents. If, say, a 'widget' seemed to have failed, then a quick inspection of 'widgets' on other aircraft might prevent future accidents, even though the accident investigation is ongoing. If a widget problem was the main cause, then the 'rush' would help prevent further accidents. On the other hand, if the accident investigation found that the failure was actually caused by, say, a widget drain line failure, then the widget inspections and replacements would have been a waste of time. But that's the nature of reality: We always only have partial knowledge." He also notes that there is a difference between "cause" and "contributing factor," and says, "Rushing to judgment almost always seeks for a cause, rather than looking at the larger system." When faced with a serious problem in your home or church, how do you react -- immediate action, longer investigation, or some combination of the two? What guides your response? When do you make a distinction between causes and contributing factors? How do you live with only partial knowledge? 3. [According to](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPHqYzlFhngTMk0G9-2F-2BQ1rl-2Fw6x2zy7Y-2F6jnQCBZtncbt7yRZH0pnsY-2FXtCToS4jDODw6yDIqEsPX3osD8L0xwprmgKMWinfiFH3Hl-2BTS7KQsBM7g_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZ1gnUq6oR-2B6yrH44cssUs-2F0an-2BOK3DGlj-2BPnIdRMR-2Fj1ugpOgMbnBOF5PIWAF4daeSNiwbEIvfDRY8u-2BPtycIzda-2FFCdHgEMUoODp4ltxEf4yrHioPjCs8z2Z5SSyaAEu-2FnuQo7M8CIM-2FsEkhIv3ycfVuUAP1UVQN-2FshH39um1YD3HdF8t59d3K3TsCucmSB-2FGAXS45-2BEdGv0Hcwog1n2zWGdZqRA1-2B0S8Pd7chEwLKtcVIFDluk-2BgLLBz-2FVOoKsXE8cXOnfkb1QyTaLheD1wk-3D) [*NPR*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPHqYzlFhngTMk0G9-2F-2BQ1rl-2Fw6x2zy7Y-2F6jnQCBZtncbt7yRZH0pnsY-2FXtCToS4jDODw6yDIqEsPX3osD8L0xwprmgKMWinfiFH3Hl-2BTS7KQs4trd_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZ1gnUq6oR-2B6yrH44cssUs-2F0an-2BOK3DGlj-2BPnIdRMR-2Fj1ugpOgMbnBOF5PIWAF4dadyjwe-2Bpp3bp0SZhV7To-2Bqk8GR6lriUmhLpG9OQY-2FMZ6Z-2BfVQvXCSyoWZCseTfhjT-2BwGL6lLCeePAT-2BzCTVdKqSWAG88zsHNljytbIODdxt8I2xdbS3a2kQs8rIhGDqOeMZn9m34HHGYBo61wn-2F5HydQIy9UXX1Wsglh-2BJDo9a9Jg2130yvVEyEslDyh3rAo2KPPejGKbv0VrfOyQFIfEck-3D), "Federal authorities have restricted helicopter flights near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport," beginning two days after the deadly collision. The decision will "immediately help secure the airspace near Reagan Airport, ensuring the safety of airplane and helicopter traffic," said U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy. What do you think of this immediate decision? What else, if anything, should be done right away? 4. In a time of grief and loss, Christians are challenged to offer support instead of answers. What would you say to a family member who had lost a loved one in the DCA air disaster? What kind of active listening has been helpful to you when you have suffered a loss? Be specific. How will you approach grieving members of your Christian community in the future? **Responding to the News** Pray that God's loving arms will be wrapped around every victim of these air disasters, and their families and friends. As you face challenges in your own home, school, workplace and church, reflect on how you can resist the temptation to make assumptions and rush to judgment, but instead trust God to lead you into appropriate understandings and actions. **Prayer** Almighty God, in life and in death we belong to you. Send your powerful Spirit on all who are grieving this day, and guide those who are working to discover the truth about recent accidents in the air. May we offer support to all who are suffering, in whatever way we can, following the example of your Son Jesus. Amen. ****Copyright 2024 Communication Resources**** [Unsubscribe From This List](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/asm/unsubscribe/?user_id=14323725&data=S23ZUbx-QvP3RBfGtqEGDQLlSs4xqrcAQpEZASF6DfRoMDAwdTAwMGJTOdGcnyrnMnjwKNWSJisw3bm0WSN260xbNAxVQcypeRq0i-xZycW2gcZxeD2yeiyq6Xm4xVqm6l5x-Mjstl4DsX6ImWxo_xCN1JafPDVkFi_s8bN4k-2-VkCm1qs9ub8L4SljCYzwBrxJzxs02y8ipugYPQUtgeLayvMEY9-8SheXPNno4FJPQVWrvwu8TTQSCKsAcZ0JRA3ap4tWPXvK7yyG67yKT4VPJBcfUmqQz4fs44gLSv_RqS_a1yYP0x3O6XwVvldsmGvlks57gEwXCesIX6y6ad1pNF_AArXGtJnxyiAOQqiSR5_fv93FREGOpseN8P0MoqqtRuoUESSCdr2CrR3k_4hFxHpwLOqO-t-aCXYj_FndGGJ25UFM0520WauMJgtK5EEJTzY2_Ycu7G2TlzrxUxcAAyQj-3qFoVBvHwmmFsg61vMNJgKg2If_jvXvsZzaFWfU-cxHQ80ZpZPXcAoaDO2pQnfz5HK2B94ViQ-QugbMnyaXt4QY1DK7AEmyWHkaCEFdrmAcA9cI6QDZSkwBljU9csSdIOGUrvN-Da7tSPpNE82O4g08GblAqxI5t4W3bnc_s6C5L5O00iCbKMuv-1rb561KL-I-) <div>Dear Class Members, The deadly crash of a commercial jet and a military helicopter over the Potomac River has left people shocked by the tragedy and curious about the reasons for the crash. Because an air disaster raises so many questions, this installment of The Wired Word will focus on why we often rush to judgment, why we make assumptions, why concrete answers are so important to us, and the question of whether the "need to know" is contrary to faith. <center><img src="https://www.thewiredword.com/\_img/tww\_logo\_email.jpg"/></center> Crash of Jet and Helicopter Raises Many Questions The Wired Word for the Week of February 9, 2025 In the News American Airlines Flight 5342 collided with an Army helicopter at about 9 p.m. on Wednesday, January 29, near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA). The accident sent the two aircraft into the Potomac River, killing all 67 aboard. The collision was the deadliest air crash in the United States in more than 20 years. This airspace is some of the most tightly controlled in the world, located just three miles south of the White House and the United States Capitol. The accident caused the airport to be shut down until 11 a.m. the next day, as rescue teams searched for survivors. The focus of the mission quickly changed from rescue to recovery, as bodies were pulled out of the river. According to CBS News, at least 42 bodies had been found as of Saturday. By Tuesday, the remains of all 67 had been recovered. Among the victims were a number of top figure skaters from Russia and the United States, including six people with ties to the Skating Club of Boston. Athletes Jinna Han and Spencer Lane, along with skating coaches Vadim Naumov and Evgenia Shishkova, were on board the flight. The group was returning home from the National Development Camp, which was held in connection with the recent United States Figure Skating Championships in Wichita. Spencer Lane's father said that his 16-year-old son was a "force of nature" who started figure skating just three years ago and had progressed quickly. Naumov and Shishkova, born in Russia, were figure skaters who won the 1994 World Figure Skating Championship and had been coaching at the Skating Club of Boston. According to NPR, the crew of the Black Hawk helicopter included Capt. Rebecca Lobach, 28, from Durham, North Carolina; fellow pilot Chief Warrant Officer Andrew Eaves, 39, of Great Mills, Maryland; and crew member Staff Sgt. Ryan O'Hara, 28, of Lilburn, Georgia. Lobach had 500 hours of flight time, considered normal, while Eaves had 1,000 hours, deemed experienced. Kansas Sen. Roger Marshall said in a statement, "Tonight, we received devastating news of what can only be described as nothing short of a nightmare. ... My prayer is that God wraps his arms around each and every victim, and that he continues to be with their families." Since the crash, officials have been probing the cause. The Associated Press reports that the American Airlines regional jet had left Wichita, Kansas, with 60 passengers and four crew, and was preparing to land at DCA. The UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter, with its three soldiers, was on a training exercise out of Fort Belvoir, Virginia. The sun had set but the skies were clear. A few minutes before the regional jet was scheduled to land, air traffic controllers asked its pilots if they could use a shorter runway. The pilots agreed. Controllers cleared the landing, and the plane shifted its course to the new runway. Less than 30 seconds before the collision, an air traffic controller asked the helicopter if it had the jet in sight. The military pilot responded yes. Then the controller made another call to the helicopter, apparently telling the helicopter to pass behind the jet. There was no reply and the two aircraft collided. So, what caused the crash? Many questions are being asked. Investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have recovered the cockpit voice recorder and flight data recorder from the plane, along with comparable devices from the helicopter. Crash investigations normally take between 12 and 18 months, and on Thursday, investigators told reporters they would not speculate on the cause. Federal investigators will analyze communication between the two aircraft and air traffic controllers, as well as pilot actions and aircraft altitudes. One key question is focused on how high the helicopter was flying. Early indications are that the chopper was flying higher than it should have been at the time of the crash. On Fox News, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said on Friday that the chopper's maximum permissible altitude was 200 feet. Jonathan Koziol, chief of staff for Army aviation, said that investigators need to analyze flight data before making a conclusion about whether the helicopter went higher than it should have. Hegseth said the Army also wants to know if the helicopter crew was using night vision goggles. On the one hand, such goggles can be a help with night flying; on the other hand, they can be problematic around the bright lights of an airport. Another question revolves around how many air traffic controllers were working at the time of the crash. Two sources told CBS News that only one air traffic control worker was managing the helicopters and some planes from the DCA tower at the time of the collision, a job normally done by two people. At least one air traffic controller who was on duty has been interviewed, and NTSB member Todd Ingram said that interviews were ongoing. The NTSB will look at whether staffing played a role in the collision. "It's not uncommon for air traffic controllers to combine positions based on the workload at the existing time," said Robert Sumwalt, a former chairman of the agency. "I think what's important here is to let the NTSB sort through the details and figure out if this had any effect at all on the operations." More on this story can be found at these links: <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPBxnHMU9QMICZ4NjuSVxEvL5RDbrFEBtH5kyqV-2FIi2dW4QRcARuRIBpv3rumHo1lSRBuJ5aaQukdQsO7vkW0xAoCtj6t-2F5gU0IAJ7gelbzcI2yUU\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZ1gnUq6oR-2B6yrH44cssUs-2F0an-2BOK3DGlj-2BPnIdRMR-2Fj1ugpOgMbnBOF5PIWAF4dafe9Bxk4xNjoQl9pUIVddZvHI08ocmNqP2zm9i3NzlhxahX62DJ-2F7F0sCtm6U9OlJlkFMflxB-2FK9OkvxYDcW-2BFledlJY-2FnMhY-2FVh-2BdUTuiaK6yNyKtW-2FRWeUWsOej1r6eZRF4FJ-2FV71qWMFuETt-2BV6kn1pMOXw5BaJ-2FCQMooDgswXN1319O9cl9HaIsjU1ZJl2UyAD8kMniO7qkwKcnZfJc-3D">What We Know About the American Airlines Plane and Army Helicopter Crash Over D.C.'s Potomac River. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPBxnHMU9QMICZ4NjuSVxEvL5RDbrFEBtH5kyqV-2FIi2dW4QRcARuRIBpv3rumHo1lSRBuJ5aaQukdQsO7vkW0xAoCtj6t-2F5gU0IAJ7gelbzcIYBe3\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZ1gnUq6oR-2B6yrH44cssUs-2F0an-2BOK3DGlj-2BPnIdRMR-2Fj1ugpOgMbnBOF5PIWAF4daSuW0cyEJCwki-2FeLPknmKq5jOc6oZwo7-2BiwC5nCdCr-2BwyrWh2Gw88-2F5in2TiC-2FjN7CMwDplHarjKpXiJq-2BjV4T-2FzvC7AkuOeG7H-2FMIBIiGX-2Fj1Wi74TygPCGKVMw4nTyHA-2BLC2BJ2TJeTgLDf5-2F30vjmj6oUhV6s8C-2FJwZIJaBneptUI-2FNuN65u8SoMk9yztynTc7ZOJF78wf9Ri7TIageM-3D">CBS News</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPHqYzlFhngTMk0G9-2F-2BQ1rl8mPXx9HfOjQJ44vNJKGwtJKf-2BUMTKZ02rS7PbJeiEdHduRAkRsQmfJYfUp9NqMDt2H0Vk3DPZZynUgZou42Xm2GGT93td0h-2FRN9jwqqHaB8Q-3D-3DjgQw\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZ1gnUq6oR-2B6yrH44cssUs-2F0an-2BOK3DGlj-2BPnIdRMR-2Fj1ugpOgMbnBOF5PIWAF4daeJJOmTeWYIxGHkVgEvfPRqpmiruRcoXOhPh4bioPA9M9Hz7-2Fy03bbj7PQPG36iPm-2FK2Z60aEHK4eHfGomMhc1X6ju8myMa-2FL861p3u969LDL-2BPHB4s4l7wrlcvaJ4HYaiuZDY-2Bc2F8KSnSUdAZbNMhtN-2F1RseHWL8FhpjxXClbWWcNYwDg25nAkhaJpwrtk4MoXlC5GWcBepmZosumvgK4-3D">Third Black Hawk Crew Member Involved in Deadly Crash Near DC Airport Identified. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPHqYzlFhngTMk0G9-2F-2BQ1rl8mPXx9HfOjQJ44vNJKGwtJKf-2BUMTKZ02rS7PbJeiEdHduRAkRsQmfJYfUp9NqMDt2H0Vk3DPZZynUgZou42Xm2GGT93td0h-2FRN9jwqqHaB8Q-3D-3DW8pH\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZ1gnUq6oR-2B6yrH44cssUs-2F0an-2BOK3DGlj-2BPnIdRMR-2Fj1ugpOgMbnBOF5PIWAF4daW4GGMQINd70gVv0Vn023EYMs4bznVZI7foEKLXwDh-2FiUm51aIVJpz9bK435kI3F3Xbg0Mo2FkaMelCOR6oRI5oKSZ-2FXBrrQL1Mr7sql7AoU1A2pXCFanQgefmld8zSXQRa6d0-2BfxYxNsu5ZU3n2NLLb7uLayTbX3Oi9y7yEYI6RAZ1wAh-2FVnlrZu5VeVL6JAs-2BClLMmNwtluk-2FGkZjIRdQ-3D">NPR</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPO29U5mpkJW4NorWG1C-2Fci2GaaRNNWy-2FRQr9EFlJBNFPnGZf\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZ1gnUq6oR-2B6yrH44cssUs-2F0an-2BOK3DGlj-2BPnIdRMR-2Fj1ugpOgMbnBOF5PIWAF4daX-2FdmtQejzzWxwPFJtvvvgyN3RtDHZ9S-2Br2QPNz7X9ctYiVFXISud7ALE0bwpjoChDOHYQNAz-2BVDgE6WjAho-2BdWQvMnzSQsSrUvUGnlm5Np6CloTZ6aO70VH3qb10nHe9at7tciGnxmbpE6aQn3KxRzuqhrwhPzPQ8gWG-2FAg62fQdB-2BgjBh41hFqHcVm3LthJEdC4FlgPSBxlUfEpuMqwrc-3D">What Is Known About the Fatal Crash of</a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPO29U5mpkJW4NorWG1C-2Fci2GaaRNNWy-2FRQr9EFlJBNFP2awA\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZ1gnUq6oR-2B6yrH44cssUs-2F0an-2BOK3DGlj-2BPnIdRMR-2Fj1ugpOgMbnBOF5PIWAF4daZi2ZLYZ84TcJF9PQxGwWrR6bQIpqFc4bw5YCSPS7oIjkeLajM-2BxfHz3LGZ52nl-2Fp4EKWBXg5I4DfUD4xWCDQ2djH65f7SOp1bQwytQsfRutio77coi5ZX-2BxDSY6ojdWlLFZ3chr67zireiR70qnGqxZZ3gOoYN2WkFr6HQWb4CxnnY8bSJHW1z2H9GeHTawNpvz8EdiYacn7BsIJefUpl8-3D"> a </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPO29U5mpkJW4NorWG1C-2Fci2GaaRNNWy-2FRQr9EFlJBNFPhTml\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZ1gnUq6oR-2B6yrH44cssUs-2F0an-2BOK3DGlj-2BPnIdRMR-2Fj1ugpOgMbnBOF5PIWAF4daRTwFuZj3r01MlqJNKrrPJMuZSJSGrjIIxI-2F231h6oEVq5PTzpASYBt7mIxfAyBf-2F3453sv1mQQUMVbJ2unxyUYxV7rkQSLER0i5PMv4Qsn8tZDpr0vz4cH6gQJNqGUVaG4u5GcibjQNj-2BckLiLSP9W6jx56DvodwVG539gLVyT9-2FgHs1hVp9g-2F-2BYqeh0xbMr59gcwt2bs9PmEx-2BWVr9QGQ-3D">Plane and Army Chopper. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPO29U5mpkJW4NorWG1C-2Fci2GaaRNNWy-2FRQr9EFlJBNFPkGaU\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZ1gnUq6oR-2B6yrH44cssUs-2F0an-2BOK3DGlj-2BPnIdRMR-2Fj1ugpOgMbnBOF5PIWAF4daYkedjIUBAyRmsqoZtHr-2FSRQ1-2Bg42DBUZDfYUm8m7JGISVPZF3aZ5m-2FUFp7-2BGhKEqY9I5IfHZNkqfre-2BqmiQgCmjITupcl0gBrAYQDTdHZrn8x-2FlGyWTdAeJqJZR8nKIUTWDkuedJRFDkMVE2BVhDZUa53-2FLNMCAusbxnq056yh6rc6WXfLFgzXHWMk2w-2BWqtIFa0WqYutf60yvgBIar3OI-3D">Associated Press</a> Applying the News Story Kansas Sen. Roger Marshall was right to say, "My prayer is that God wraps his arms around each and every victim, and that he continues to be with their families." After a horrible air disaster, prayer for the victims and their families is a faithful response. Why, then, do we rush to judgment, make assumptions, and demand immediate, concrete answers? Discuss whether a "need to know" is contrary to faith. The Big Questions 1. After the crash, people rushed to judge the crew of the helicopter and the air traffic controllers. Why do people rush to judgment? Why is it so hard to wait for the investigation to be complete? When have you witnessed, or been part of, a rush to judgment? What was the outcome? 2. Many have made the assumption that the helicopter was flying too high and/or slightly off course, the air traffic control room was understaffed, or the helicopter pilots were (or were not) wearing night vision goggles. When do assumptions lead to incorrect conclusions? How are people affected? When have you experienced this? 3. Shock and grief have been natural outcomes of this air disaster. Why do people have trouble accepting these reactions? What spiritual and emotional healing can happen when we allow ourselves to invite God into the pain? How does your church community help you with this? 4. After an air crash, quick answers can sometimes improve safety. When is it appropriate to demand immediate answers? When, if ever, have you done this, and what happened? In what cases is it better to be patient and wait? When have you been forced to wait for an answer, and how did you handle the delay? What was the value of the answer you finally received? 5. Is a "need to know" contrary to faith? TWW Team Member Ako Cromwell wonders whether the rush to find answers is a desire for a "quick closure." Is this desire at odds with the Christian faith? Is it reasonable to ask people to be patient when they are feeling great pain? When have you laid aside a question and put your trust in God? What did the experience teach you? How did you grow in faith during that time of not knowing? Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion: Genesis 15:6 And [Abram] believed the LORD, and the LORD reckoned it to him as righteousness. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxdxvwvUIbrGNsYJ-2B9LkHJNZIjdXX5YS7vXZtjGlhPGPemkPbuoGMQDYLjEPldKee4Fvtu\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZ1gnUq6oR-2B6yrH44cssUs-2F0an-2BOK3DGlj-2BPnIdRMR-2Fj1ugpOgMbnBOF5PIWAF4daZAdtMyN3G9-2FeCrC4Wy1YtB1IYn9yHvUm0kChtAK-2Ft6xgqbNFU-2B0BAwBWkQDb8JSRcs2c387-2FkBLcMl1YfpTe-2Bo3WGFLJdbb2AQJ9p-2Bi8eXU827d1eL5mWUzHORYxSMnXdoghC3uCenCN1WMY8e-2FzpVw7envWvgSpQKcojeh-2BNIWBOYlZMPX1eNSpjpEIaAnIs-2FU1QsYPr31htoCK49KZVs-3D">Genesis 15:1-6</a>.) Abram was challenged by God to go from his home in Haran to the land of Canaan (12:1). Later, God made a covenant with Abram that reaffirmed God's promise to bless him with land in this new country, as well as offspring to inherit the land. Abram wondered how this could be possible, saying to God, "You have given me no offspring, so a slave born in my house is to be my heir" (15:3). Abram made the assumption that his only heir would be a slave in his house. But the word of the LORD came to Abram, "This man shall not be your heir; no one but your very own issue shall be your heir" (v. 4). God invited Abram to go outside and count the stars, and said that Abram's descendants would be as numerous as the stars. Genesis tells us that Abram "believed the LORD, and the LORD reckoned it to him as righteousness." Abram, whose name was changed to Abraham, was made right with God by his willingness to believe God. In the New Testament, the apostle Paul picked up on this and said, "Abraham believed God, and it was reckoned to him as righteousness" (Romans 4:3). The Protestant Reformer Martin Luther made Paul's insight the center of his theology, one which asserted that we are saved by the grace of God through our faith in Jesus. <blockquote> Questions: When have you made an assumption about the future that turned out to be incorrect? How did God lead you to the truth? When have you chosen to believe God in the face of an uncertain future? How did this choice affect your relationship with God and with the people around you? </blockquote> John 18:38 Pilate asked [Jesus], "What is truth?" (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxIZQdl9o19AaGMoRwm2CB4lNlpDhD2NaLiJ8eadY7HL1DWWRSVco9uzjH4oh5TBFs9XMu\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZ1gnUq6oR-2B6yrH44cssUs-2F0an-2BOK3DGlj-2BPnIdRMR-2Fj1ugpOgMbnBOF5PIWAF4daTPWGOtSxe-2BMH5MdgJB8281u2ocFfVkktnwbN6zM-2BI2YJ9Z8ZRRDI0NSJEzbEzZLSJYByRCz-2BBv5JFvHubEPQjb8NN-2Fd3wvLPNJcIf0lWhhPlvxV1aRi1OrtLB3-2Bs9suZdpyDZcq3acYp-2BSVF4msW8-2BFwL7prYHsiu3zsQivnrjeglK7kh-2B6ibgh-2F01fRxmTXu1yiStFFnz65AotpLIbfXo-3D">John 18:33-40</a>.) Jesus has been brought to Pilate, the Roman governor, because only the Roman Empire can perform an execution. The Jewish priests want Jesus to die, but they do not have the authority to kill him. The governor asks Jesus, "Are you the King of the Jews?" (18:33). This is the only thing that Pilate cares about, because a Jewish king would be a threat to Roman authority. If Jesus says "yes," then he will be convicted of treason against Rome and given a death sentence. But Jesus is too smart to respond with a simple yeah or nay. Like an experienced trial lawyer, Jesus says, "My kingdom does not belong to this world" (v. 36). Jesus hints that he may be a king, since he speaks of his kingdom, but he does not describe a kingdom that would fit any Roman understanding. Pilate presses him on his kingship and asks, "So you are a king?" (v. 37). Jesus dodges again. "You say that I am a king. For this I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to my voice" (v. 37). Jesus has come to invite people to enter into a relationship with him, by listening to his voice and belonging to the truth. Then Pilate asks, "What is truth?" Jesus says nothing. He simply stands there as the one who is "the way and the truth and the life" (14:6). The answer to the question is his own life, death and resurrection. <blockquote> Questions: How do you understand Jesus to be the answer to the question, "What is truth?" In a world defined by facts and figures, what is important about this kind of truth? Why do people "need to know" Jesus in a way that they do not need other answers? </blockquote> 2 Corinthians 5:6-7 So we are always confident, even though we know that while we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord -- for we walk by faith, not by sight. (For context <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzx5N3asDrM8aLtAZM6HVDt1b-2BGI1AhATEKB33r4f0aJcuteQyNLaWsJdivNkYOk9mRq-2BjNNOjQ6FDKC7NsHTXlNA-3D-3DPXH6\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZ1gnUq6oR-2B6yrH44cssUs-2F0an-2BOK3DGlj-2BPnIdRMR-2Fj1ugpOgMbnBOF5PIWAF4daS2A9dFfw8RPoHyh7lsK6ZBSeVLNryK3a8s94Dtn-2FtzGIGTI0QlciVzCZFJjFFy0tblvgQbieQKq96BtjFUbLm1lNZ-2FEAKSUh0rS7-2BO-2BwYFWd0TTU5gVRyf-2FdeUOfhFpGiw2szFHYRnVyDi8xSGY9Gai51Xht8e4u-2FHGDKfl8zeRaYj5XaJd9sL4lngKauVlLVKRj-2FYS8lzHHXbsgV4P0t0-3D">2 Corinthians 4:1</a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzx5N3asDrM8aLtAZM6HVDt1b-2BGI1AhATEKB33r4f0aJcuteQyNLaWsJdivNkYOk9mRq-2BjNNOjQ6FDKC7NsHTXlNA-3D-3DYj97\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZ1gnUq6oR-2B6yrH44cssUs-2F0an-2BOK3DGlj-2BPnIdRMR-2Fj1ugpOgMbnBOF5PIWAF4daeNyMZGtvcVzWdc04cDF0DvieHstROuYKj9qntu-2Fy09uUt-2BfJ6stAJIUVFclYC3HQ2GukiiHzFkTuFSkEhpiLM5Gni5vZi17dqYRvdpPbtyauVijYLyfrgSzrgKfMXIRdmeTrzVb911heU5hI7JLRMKCamGnLaHIfyHV31X9VjR2seCvp-2BfGH5iJwYj2amSwn84O80gJmQFKSm9Oxjm669U-3D">6--5:</a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzx5N3asDrM8aLtAZM6HVDt1b-2BGI1AhATEKB33r4f0aJcuteQyNLaWsJdivNkYOk9mRq-2BjNNOjQ6FDKC7NsHTXlNA-3D-3DI\_iU\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZ1gnUq6oR-2B6yrH44cssUs-2F0an-2BOK3DGlj-2BPnIdRMR-2Fj1ugpOgMbnBOF5PIWAF4daQkvrSGu54nBQb5Yfd0x-2ByllklvIElLYL4vIl17Mdq9nNq0eu63DsZQuT4ycb-2BXlJdQgU-2BTA7CErzjP72Frze2ej56-2Bu1WqPqFMnFzu9U9EGHfXMZQDVXuKnFM1Tf8Pi8gJugfaia836HjTpMK8kuWxWqsXc6y28A5hapJ4Tgbau3JeDgCoGd5AUzcd26fL6ZqIjg0AdK0V9hkmAXxC7Mx0-3D">10</a>.) Paul's second letter to the Corinthians was written after he became estranged from this community. Accusations had been made against the ministry of Paul and Timothy, so he defended their work by saying, "we look not at what can be seen but at what cannot be seen, for what can be seen is temporary, but what cannot be seen is eternal" (4:18). His focus on what is divine and eternal led him to offer a line that is often read at funerals today: "For we know that, if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens" (5:1). He knew that the destruction of our "earthly tent" would be upsetting, but it would be replaced by a "building from God," a resurrection body. This means that in our earthly existence, "we walk by faith, not by sight," living with trust in God's promises, even when we cannot see physical evidence or understand the full picture. In all things, says Paul, "we make it our aim to be pleasing to [the Lord]" (v. 9). <blockquote> Questions: When have you been challenged to walk by faith, not by sight? What did you learn on this journey? Why is it important to act in ways that are pleasing to the Lord, even when we cannot see the path that lies ahead? </blockquote> Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxfhOLPuUklFplPPD2VWbSPMPf3pXT9f5VSoAzPPUXLxfH3Cv8tc89ZjBkA-2B-2B7yEKTn2tV\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZ1gnUq6oR-2B6yrH44cssUs-2F0an-2BOK3DGlj-2BPnIdRMR-2Fj1ugpOgMbnBOF5PIWAF4daWUauMmDgRcLKyxN6rr-2FJwVBUEvmhrRFjtS7ptIsRnKiguqCXHRgd5RUiCg50D8o3R01YiD-2FGWT2ve9Xwy-2FZnmETRb6P9RyfoyRHSMkljhoTombKspRGyJXqzniOURbb9L-2B7VXIPRS9X4Gx-2BBcF0rqV-2BWlcO6hLxOi-2Ff5gLbkt1e0qU98ke3JEnRQfta-2Ffzv4ocI7C7DRnIshIdQ9BFhxE4-3D">Hebrews 11:1-12</a>.) The letter to the Hebrews is the first of the General Epistles, a set of letters addressed to a general audience, unlike the letters of the apostle Paul. Hebrews was written to Christians who had grown up Jewish, featuring elements that were connected to the Hebrew scriptures. In the 11th chapter, the author lifts up examples of enduring faith from the history of Israel. The author uses repetition of the phrase "By faith" (v. 4) to describe the ways in which Abel, Enoch, Noah and Abraham received approval from God. Faith also enabled Abraham, "with Sarah's involvement," to receive "power of procreation, even though he was too old, because he considered him faithful who had promised" (v. 11). In all these examples, "faith is the assurance of things hoped for," the confident belief in things we cannot see and yet hope to be true. <blockquote> Questions: When have you had confident belief in God's future, and what was the result? When have you struggled with this? What helps you to live by faith, and wait for God's future to be revealed? </blockquote> For Further Discussion 1. Two days after the collision over the Potomac River, <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPBxnHMU9QMICZ4NjuSVxEvLY1n9jYinUYc9wGM-2FPvgtZfCYXgK9Up1-2FWa3BvRfPHyhLc8NzbUZzsNBAMWQb-2B-2FE5g6NWvWzfR38buOnV76rIbZp7G3AXnll9xWHyIn8eIpyOKJ7yARX5LeWMRM2ZpBxk-3Dpift\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZ1gnUq6oR-2B6yrH44cssUs-2F0an-2BOK3DGlj-2BPnIdRMR-2Fj1ugpOgMbnBOF5PIWAF4dadBr0-2Bdd8jIqBYPcTHexCUIc6yr9G7-2F2OTt1q5GuNbIeMJm3ADP5g5Ndnj9c99Ueydb3FHxrw0-2Fd33K-2FQILPaCz1MHnPRGobEELmpC1MgtSxDLufm3s-2F9t-2FvoTwW6XdVVCrl80CXs0xXYyV-2FwEnqoLxQYegK47-2BxJrm93NN1n5Z11-2FMSijjzaN8x8SNMJJlzzDTqm3VVcw7VVXLqfL-2FKsqg-3D">six passengers traveling on a medical jet were killed</a> when it crashed in Northeast Philadelphia. The Learjet 55 aircraft victims included an 11-year-old pediatric patient who recently finished treatment at Shriners Children's Hospital. CBS News reports that "the jet climbed about 1,500 feet into the air before taking a slight right turn, then a slight left turn and then began a steep descent before it crashed." The NTSB is investigating. Does this week of air disasters make you more afraid to fly? Why or why not? Where do you put your faith when you get on an airplane? 2. Regarding rushing to judgment, TWW consultant James Gruetzner writes, "A quick rush to looking at immediate causes can prevent future accidents. If, say, a 'widget' seemed to have failed, then a quick inspection of 'widgets' on other aircraft might prevent future accidents, even though the accident investigation is ongoing. If a widget problem was the main cause, then the 'rush' would help prevent further accidents. On the other hand, if the accident investigation found that the failure was actually caused by, say, a widget drain line failure, then the widget inspections and replacements would have been a waste of time. But that's the nature of reality: We always only have partial knowledge." He also notes that there is a difference between "cause" and "contributing factor," and says, "Rushing to judgment almost always seeks for a cause, rather than looking at the larger system." When faced with a serious problem in your home or church, how do you react -- immediate action, longer investigation, or some combination of the two? What guides your response? When do you make a distinction between causes and contributing factors? How do you live with only partial knowledge? 3. <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPHqYzlFhngTMk0G9-2F-2BQ1rl-2Fw6x2zy7Y-2F6jnQCBZtncbt7yRZH0pnsY-2FXtCToS4jDODw6yDIqEsPX3osD8L0xwprmgKMWinfiFH3Hl-2BTS7KQsBM7g\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZ1gnUq6oR-2B6yrH44cssUs-2F0an-2BOK3DGlj-2BPnIdRMR-2Fj1ugpOgMbnBOF5PIWAF4daeSNiwbEIvfDRY8u-2BPtycIzda-2FFCdHgEMUoODp4ltxEf4yrHioPjCs8z2Z5SSyaAEu-2FnuQo7M8CIM-2FsEkhIv3ycfVuUAP1UVQN-2FshH39um1YD3HdF8t59d3K3TsCucmSB-2FGAXS45-2BEdGv0Hcwog1n2zWGdZqRA1-2B0S8Pd7chEwLKtcVIFDluk-2BgLLBz-2FVOoKsXE8cXOnfkb1QyTaLheD1wk-3D">According to </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPHqYzlFhngTMk0G9-2F-2BQ1rl-2Fw6x2zy7Y-2F6jnQCBZtncbt7yRZH0pnsY-2FXtCToS4jDODw6yDIqEsPX3osD8L0xwprmgKMWinfiFH3Hl-2BTS7KQs4trd\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZ1gnUq6oR-2B6yrH44cssUs-2F0an-2BOK3DGlj-2BPnIdRMR-2Fj1ugpOgMbnBOF5PIWAF4dadyjwe-2Bpp3bp0SZhV7To-2Bqk8GR6lriUmhLpG9OQY-2FMZ6Z-2BfVQvXCSyoWZCseTfhjT-2BwGL6lLCeePAT-2BzCTVdKqSWAG88zsHNljytbIODdxt8I2xdbS3a2kQs8rIhGDqOeMZn9m34HHGYBo61wn-2F5HydQIy9UXX1Wsglh-2BJDo9a9Jg2130yvVEyEslDyh3rAo2KPPejGKbv0VrfOyQFIfEck-3D">NPR</a>, "Federal authorities have restricted helicopter flights near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport," beginning two days after the deadly collision. The decision will "immediately help secure the airspace near Reagan Airport, ensuring the safety of airplane and helicopter traffic," said U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy. What do you think of this immediate decision? What else, if anything, should be done right away? 4. In a time of grief and loss, Christians are challenged to offer support instead of answers. What would you say to a family member who had lost a loved one in the DCA air disaster? What kind of active listening has been helpful to you when you have suffered a loss? Be specific. How will you approach grieving members of your Christian community in the future? Responding to the News Pray that God's loving arms will be wrapped around every victim of these air disasters, and their families and friends. As you face challenges in your own home, school, workplace and church, reflect on how you can resist the temptation to make assumptions and rush to judgment, but instead trust God to lead you into appropriate understandings and actions. Prayer Almighty God, in life and in death we belong to you. Send your powerful Spirit on all who are grieving this day, and guide those who are working to discover the truth about recent accidents in the air. May we offer support to all who are suffering, in whatever way we can, following the example of your Son Jesus. Amen. 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