The Wired Word for 03302025 - CourtneyR.dev's 2nd Brain

The Wired Word for 03/30/2025 ![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 03/30/2025 - Category: #articles - Document Note: --- tags: [#Space, #Faith, #Astronauts, #ChristianLiving] Author: The Wired Word Team Source: The Wired Word for the Week of March 30, 2025 Reference: [USA Today](https://www.usatoday.com), [NASA Website](https://www.nasa.gov), [PBS News](https://www.pbs.org) date created: {{date:2025-03-30}} {{time:HH:mm}} --- # Title: Reflections on Patience, Faith, and Unexpected Journeys: Lessons from Astronauts' Extended Stay in Space ## 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-assessment) - [✅ Logical Validity](#-logical-validity) - [🔍 DARVO Analysis](#-darvo-analysis) - [🔍 SEO Evaluation](#-seo-evaluation) - [🎯 Conclusion](#-conclusion) ### References: - **Primary Sources:** - [USA Today: Starliner Astronauts Are Back](https://www.usatoday.com) - [NASA Website: Expedition 72](https://www.nasa.gov) - [PBS News: Astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore](https://www.pbs.org) - **Supplementary Material:** The Wired Word articles and lessons (e.g., "Astronauts Waiting on Space Station for Spacecraft Repair" and "Marooned Astronaut is in Constant Contact With Church") ## 📝 Summary: The article recounts the return of NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita "Suni" Williams after an extended nine‐month mission on the International Space Station. It explores how unexpected delays, equipment malfunctions, and changes in travel plans can serve as metaphors for the Christian journey of waiting on God. Through reflections on patience, managing expectations, and finding hope in difficult times, the article invites readers to consider how their faith sustains them during prolonged periods of uncertainty. ## 📖 Main Content: The piece begins by detailing the astronauts’ prolonged mission—a situation that arose due to technical setbacks with the Boeing Starliner. Originally scheduled for a brief eight‐day journey, complications forced them to remain aboard the ISS for over 280 days. This unexpected extension is used to highlight broader themes: - **Faith and Patience:** Just as the astronauts embraced an unplanned, extended mission, believers are encouraged to trust in God’s timing even when plans change. - **Managing Expectations:** The narrative draws parallels between the astronauts’ adjustments and the challenges faced in everyday life, particularly when outcomes deviate from our expectations. - **Spiritual Reflection:** Biblical passages (from Numbers, Proverbs, John, and 2 Peter) are interwoven to show that waiting and trusting in a larger purpose can lead to eventual restoration and renewal. ### 🗒️ Notes: - **Astronauts' Extended Mission:** - **Key Event:** Return of astronauts Wilmore and Williams after more than 280 days in space. - [March 18, 2025 – Return](https://www.example.com/march18) - **Initial Plan vs. Reality:** Initially scheduled for an eight-day journey on the Boeing Starliner; delays caused by helium leaks and thruster malfunctions. - [July 7, 2024 – Initial Coverage](https://www.example.com/july7) - [September 22, 2024 – Follow-Up Lesson](https://www.example.com/sept22) - **Faith and Patience:** - **Reflection Point:** The article invites readers to reflect on personal experiences of waiting and the importance of trusting God when outcomes are delayed. - **Scriptural Integration:** Passages from Numbers 14, Proverbs 3, John 11, and 2 Peter 3:9 are used to illustrate how waiting and perseverance are integral to faith. - **Practical Applications:** - **Personal Reflection:** Readers are challenged to recount times when plans went awry and to consider how their faith helped them navigate these challenges. - **Community Engagement:** Discussion questions prompt reflection on both personal and communal levels, encouraging sharing and support within faith communities. - **Logistical Challenges:** - **Crew Transition:** Crew-10 replaced Crew-9 due to changes in launch scheduling and capsule availability. - **Resource Management:** Astronauts prepared for extended stays with ample supplies, highlighting the importance of planning for unforeseen delays. ## 📖 References: - [USA Today: Starliner Astronauts Are Back](https://www.usatoday.com) - [NASA Website: Expedition 72](https://www.nasa.gov) - [PBS News: Astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore](https://www.pbs.org) ## 🗣️ Paraphrase: - **Paragraph 1 (Mission Extension):** - *Original:* "We came up prepared to stay long, even though we planned to stay short," said astronaut Butch Wilmore, reflecting on the unforeseen extension of their mission due to technical issues. - *Paraphrase:* "Although our initial plan was brief, we were ready for a long stay when circumstances forced us to extend our mission," explained Butch Wilmore, acknowledging the unexpected challenges that led to their prolonged time aboard the ISS. - **Paragraph 2 (Faith in the Process):** - *Original:* When asked if she felt trapped on the ISS, Suni Williams responded, "We're part of a bigger process," emphasizing that the extended mission was a necessary part of fulfilling international scientific objectives. - *Paraphrase:* In response to concerns about confinement, Suni Williams remarked, "We are integral to a larger plan," highlighting that the delay was essential for achieving broader scientific and cooperative goals. ## 📰 Newsletter: Welcome to this week’s edition of our WordPress Insights newsletter! In an inspiring blend of technology and faith, we explore how the extended stay of NASA astronauts on the ISS offers valuable lessons in patience and expectation management. Learn how unexpected delays can lead to greater outcomes, much like refining a complex web development project. We also highlight new plugins, community initiatives, and essential updates in the WordPress ecosystem. Stay tuned for in-depth tutorials, expert interviews, and our favorite tips for balancing innovation with spiritual insight. For more details, check out our featured articles on [NASA’s Expedition 72](https://www.nasa.gov) and our latest WordPress releases! ## ✅ Action Items: - **Map the Journey to Open-Source Advocacy:** - Relate the challenges of extended space missions to the obstacles faced by open-source projects. - Use examples from the article to inspire new contributors by emphasizing perseverance and long-term vision. - **Enhance Contributor Engagement:** - Develop workshops that integrate faith-based resilience and technical problem-solving. - Create discussion forums where community members can share personal stories of overcoming delays. - **Align with Professional Focus:** - Incorporate these insights into educational materials and presentations, highlighting how managing expectations and embracing change are crucial in both technology and life. - **Promote Transparency and Inclusivity:** - Use the article’s honest reflections as a model for transparent communication with your community, fostering an environment where challenges are openly discussed and solutions collaboratively developed. ## 🧪 Hypotheses: - **Hypothesis 1:** Extended periods of uncertainty, like those experienced by astronauts, positively impact long-term resilience and innovation in both technological and personal contexts. - **Hypothesis 2:** Faith-based perspectives on waiting and patience enhance community engagement and satisfaction in open-source projects. - **Hypothesis 3:** Integrating spiritual insights with technical training can lead to improved problem-solving skills and collaborative outcomes. ### 📊 Methodology: - **Data Sources:** - Surveys of community members and contributors on their experiences with project delays. - Analysis of case - Summary: The return of two astronauts after nine months on the International Space Station gives The Wired Word an opportunity to look at patience while awaiting God's outcomes, faithful ways to manage expectations, and how our Christian faith can help us when we feel trapped. Dear Class Members, The return of two astronauts after nine months on the International Space Station gives *The Wired Word* an opportunity to look at patience while awaiting God's outcomes, faithful ways to manage expectations, and how our Christian faith can help us when we feel trapped. ![](https://www.thewiredword.com/_img/tww_logo_email.jpg) **Astronauts Return to Earth After Nine Months in Space*****The Wired Word*** **for the Week of March 30, 2025** **In the News** "We came up prepared to stay long, even though we planned to stay short," NASA astronaut Butch Wilmore said earlier this month when he, along with astronauts Nick Hague and Sunita "Suni" Williams, spoke from the International Space Station (ISS) in a news conference. "Stay long" was an understatement, since Wilmore and Williams have finally returned to Earth after more than 280 days in space. Their extended mission was the sixth longest in NASA's history. TWW began coverage of this story on July 7, 2024, in the lesson "Astronauts Waiting on Space Station for Spacecraft Repair." At that point, Wilmore and Williams had expected to have an eight-day journey into space, on board the Boeing Starliner for its first crewed flight. But after experiencing helium leaks and thruster malfunctions, NASA decided to keep the astronauts safe on the ISS orbital laboratory. On September 22, 2024, TWW followed up with a lesson titled "Marooned Astronaut is in Constant Contact With Church." The astronauts were told that they would have to stay in space until February 2025, with a plan to ride home on the SpaceX Crew-9 Dragon capsule. Although the February deadline came and went, Wilmore and Williams returned safely to Earth on Tuesday, March 18, in the Crew-9 Dragon capsule, after their voyage ended in a water landing off the coast of Florida. The two astronauts traveled home with NASA astronaut Nick Hague and Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov, the two Crew-9 astronauts who had flown the Dragon capsule to the ISS in September. Although the normal Dragon crew is four astronauts, their mission included only two so that seats would be left open for Williams and Wilmore. "Crew-9 back on Earth," said NASA communications officer Sandra Jones after splashdown, according to *USA Today*. Their ride home was made possible by the arrival of four astronauts selected for SpaceX Crew-10, which replaced Crew-9 at the ISS. Wilmore and Williams needed seats on a Space-X capsule, since NASA had decided to bring the Boeing Starliner home for repair without astronauts last September. At that time, the Starliner landed safely by parachute in the New Mexico desert. Although Crew-10 was originally scheduled to fly in February, NASA changed the launch date twice. Initially, the launch was pushed to late March, in order to give SpaceX more time to prepare a new Dragon capsule. Then, the date was moved to mid-March, when NASA decided to use a "previously flown" Dragon. Williams and Wilmore are experienced NASA astronauts who have now completed three trips involving orbit around the Earth. Although they had to fill a great deal of time on the ISS, they have downplayed the strain of the extended mission, insisting that their unexpected nine-month stay was simply part of the job of being an astronaut. They filled their time by serving Expedition 72, which NASA says was focused on exploring "a variety of space phenomena to benefit humans on and off the Earth including pharmaceutical manufacturing, advanced life support systems, genetic sequencing in microgravity, and more." Among their other activities, Wilmore did one spacewalk in January, and Williams did two. Williams and Wilmore have spoken about how they relished their extra time in space, never feeling that they were trapped on the ISS. When *PBS* asked them if they felt stuck or abandoned, Williams said that she would not characterize it in that way, "We're part of a bigger process," she said. "It's about our obligation to our international partners and fulfilling the world-class science that we're doing up here on the International Space Station." After admitting that he and Williams did not bring much in the way of clothing, Wilmore said, "The space station program plans for multiple contingencies. We stockpile food to last four months beyond what is expected, at a minimum. Some -- most times, it's longer than that, food and other amenities, wet wipes, everything that you need up here. It takes a lot for human spaceflight, for humans to live in space since the year 2000." Wilmore and Williams are now able to reunite with their families and friends as they recover from the toll of the lengthy mission. Before departing the ISS, the four astronauts flying on the Crew-9 capsule spent a few days helping the members of Crew-10 to familiarize themselves with the orbital lab and station operations. Crew-10 will soon be part of NASA's Expedition 73 and will do scientific experiments on the ISS for about six months. More on this story can be found at these links: [Starliner Astronauts Are Back: Butch Wilmore, Suni Williams Land With Crew-9 in Florida.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPA7ousAV-2BR-2F5mS0DDmLU4DBv4b31J1wi3JRJUorxrPpcuKwiMnGZ0hSh2Kh1FrRB8q7DClWq46WnJsTQGnqxPZ1bh5HILNGKhkoGw0gFpDsHMyZvwJsqPMo3YrEzkQdbeg-3D-3DAj7Z_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmVL7Sy0xUMMdk20jeO-2BAadZ4AlfDB-2FeB2nxfGUk0sGH4Ed6sdskPPj0UOB68KveQpRyjlUVs9XnatXOIf3s1bn0JUYEw8YzCtqvp-2FJZ-2FnA0ZqIaG64ClvLchnnr8blg7HrDUkxS7OfHYecrNxkSHYD2L-2F1k8vmLgTm39Lj4mzyJsnFOeqhtG5xFiIOtVHR7tUwPLS2JlAxD-2BVwwv6g8heRrFjKdjvntiMyhPkY7i9p-2BnfKdRLLsj-2F-2BDUx9ARhgOiE8dIgPWUFu80DTB1x8cr6Z8-3D) [*USA Today*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPA7ousAV-2BR-2F5mS0DDmLU4DBv4b31J1wi3JRJUorxrPpcuKwiMnGZ0hSh2Kh1FrRB8q7DClWq46WnJsTQGnqxPZ1bh5HILNGKhkoGw0gFpDsHMyZvwJsqPMo3YrEzkQdbeg-3D-3DzsTy_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmVL7Sy0xUMMdk20jeO-2BAadZ4AlfDB-2FeB2nxfGUk0sGH4Ed6sdskPPj0UOB68KveQpRhe7JGzh1x2FG-2BBMNC-2BLWkCVUObxkhpF3khEjmgNOIM1gr4W0Jf3tStipiIZfYloTcluXLJAt-2FFaLJEK6sQaS0q-2Fg4W-2FADUqHg7VEPUzNfAi0tRG-2Be8bMGGdIql6Zt50IIM7QVlKPjaY6aHJHEOP6CmsZmKq7czHU3BoTipe2oUpPn6GzBRjJOdBlQgWzWe6fIu1bq0bp2u60q3MZKUrh4-3D) [Expedition 72.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPO-2BHbociXSLETHzSAkrdN0dMx1EgEACx0omEO9H5p3Gwa-2BKVHVZSwn5XyzixYnMSGA-3D-3DmGY8_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmVL7Sy0xUMMdk20jeO-2BAadZ4AlfDB-2FeB2nxfGUk0sGH4Ed6sdskPPj0UOB68KveQpT3w4nN0ZqVfWhchqazOFpBa-2Bj1zKsDEGd-2F3RqDnyHVicXzU1ys4Avj-2FXa9pWnNMBx0I58d19KL2oWpGS-2BEvCoUHyCzPjh50v-2BnnOJ0kQAfX6kosmkiRgyJLtjbTWzXyovqaSFI2722tiSjlnFVK-2B6xDMvznpbY5dgxVFrPAnGFiFSV0T-2FI7JObIA-2F3-2F9yt4MsWmxqOw3b3WdGiejTis60A-3D) [*NASA Website*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPO-2BHbociXSLETHzSAkrdN0dMx1EgEACx0omEO9H5p3Gwa-2BKVHVZSwn5XyzixYnMSGA-3D-3DtSN2_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmVL7Sy0xUMMdk20jeO-2BAadZ4AlfDB-2FeB2nxfGUk0sGH4Ed6sdskPPj0UOB68KveQpZNS9poZ5LioA-2BNv4CWtnVnjnM7DVbIqFVPjArMDXdlhrtSS3TOeDJnL7OqMGrZFrYwxTqqbXEY-2B9MX0VYd2FuUgs5lyuO96MvXZNrPQsJywJw3xHhHLaU9RSqcPVyHq3qGQIOl9bFWRJDEH1twTJql2vbvRXwdOOSoSHb4d-2Fymj-2FBSn3Lfd1BcGoqD8O-2FpdnSzY3jH78gBehv9J-2FYMP7jg-3D) [Astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore on Their Longer Than Expected Stay in Space.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPMzYPNkJ0XZ39JRiWx8F17vC2iFgXKTgfD6Hc8NT1OwsryfPuc2NEcwwBMDu3mIXEEvNb2NHK2cXaJCst-2FswyWYuGUqnewA-2FCtrkJj-2F55ArpXYzaZ-2FoCyqksPfBvkLPVWUciIu1GVJxRx790Rhmn4xJktY1SvBbZJ9-2FGrOF6aDYdm8Gz_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmVL7Sy0xUMMdk20jeO-2BAadZ4AlfDB-2FeB2nxfGUk0sGH4Ed6sdskPPj0UOB68KveQpctqHTTA8pWduNcEOSvv7sjNIzViKFYFdPRuN9dSQuSiSHIvP3YonQ94adrsKy68xItbcalHWx-2FgXIA-2F0hYL53831ZNNoX5h4-2FkBrA-2FSUFFjyyTAQP5b7nz-2BFYwrg8hi0zGV2kpJYIcFDMuD8YHKoIfusXFOtGtNwzyed2joG6ky4CPrRYcp7MziC7F5dSLqZeV6lIl0wPc8KwCCse4e-2F-2FU-3D) [*PBS News*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPMzYPNkJ0XZ39JRiWx8F17vC2iFgXKTgfD6Hc8NT1OwsryfPuc2NEcwwBMDu3mIXEEvNb2NHK2cXaJCst-2FswyWYuGUqnewA-2FCtrkJj-2F55ArpXYzaZ-2FoCyqksPfBvkLPVWUciIu1GVJxRx790Rhmn4xJktY1SvBbZJ9-2FGrOF6aDYdn5Q7_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmVL7Sy0xUMMdk20jeO-2BAadZ4AlfDB-2FeB2nxfGUk0sGH4Ed6sdskPPj0UOB68KveQpQ2RPzDkU6Ju5yVdsc7mAlP0pml67PtLjF9H4CM2fUIxESiTBRFIO7ejtHh2rAzTaEfCS8cCAKAF65-2FqWakI6fTsjd-2F9h05OF4kiOfod4rDuQHo2dQdRmiAmaQ8UV5AAWFgAsca69IWG38B7P3BqE1pbz62Sk-2BwNN9EsUHysDKDZEmQsCbCnRtdEp8ZE3-2B9kHT9H4VdO8hFrOsxgqT37T5w-3D) **Applying the News Story** Reflect on a time when your expectations were not met, your progress was delayed, or your plans were changed against your will. Discuss the value of patience while awaiting God's outcomes, faithful ways to manage expectations, and how our Christian faith can help us when we feel trapped. **The Big Questions** 1. When have you embarked on a trip or an assignment that you thought would be short, but turned out to be long? How did you handle the change -- mentally, emotionally and spiritually? 2. In what situations has your patience been tested? When has your progress been delayed, and how did you respond? When, if ever, have God's outcomes become clear to you after a time of waiting? 3. When astronaut Suni Williams was asked if she felt stuck on the ISS, she said, "We're part of a bigger process." As a Christian, what is the "bigger process" that you are a part of, and how does this awareness help you to deal with delays or frustrations? 4. How does the church teach you faithful ways to manage expectations and deal with setbacks? What more could it do to help you? 5. What aspects of your Christian faith help you when you are feeling trapped? When does your faith help you to feel at peace with your situation, and when does it give you courage and guidance to change your circumstances? **Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope**Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion: **Numbers 14:1-2***Then all the congregation raised a loud cry, and the people wept that night. And all the Israelites complained against Moses and Aaron; the whole congregation said to them, "Would that we had died in the land of Egypt! Or would that we had died in this wilderness!"* (For context, read [Numbers 14:1-16.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxipKmMB4V5Lv9UivoVYw8ZtwkGEL8OumwGz4PiSNHF2RY07MlnyqlgleC-2FgO-2B9stNwqrW_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmVL7Sy0xUMMdk20jeO-2BAadZ4AlfDB-2FeB2nxfGUk0sGH4Ed6sdskPPj0UOB68KveQpQHXIzr3g58X-2FOqeyFE-2FOhe9ZaFkAWLfLa7DOdHyj1mKXgwlGhMJr1dgrpxRiw5urgNZzIpl0BViYWA0KjWPvBTc1ZgmquyhYZthiqJ0NQ-2B2dHi47QfrSoR4d5uriUtjhVBsbFqxs6BfmyEhPqCM9Awy41K8HQXu60qGvXeDy-2Fqg07bSjVg2zQtqkl0S2oKOgHezmIj2bjiPmELADNZ26p0-3D)) Because it is filled with many numbers and census lists, the fourth book of the Bible is called "Numbers." But the Hebrew tradition calls the book *Bamidbar,* which is translated into English as "in the wilderness." The people of Israel remain in the wilderness for the length of this book, moving from Mount Sinai toward the Promised Land. As the people of Israel traveled through the wilderness, they complained against Moses and Aaron, saying, "Would that we had died in the land of Egypt!" They expected a quick and comfortable trip to the Promised Land, and they began to complain when their expectations were not met. Although they had been enslaved in Egypt, they were so miserable in the wilderness that they said to one another, "Let us choose a captain and go back to Egypt" (v. 4). God became frustrated with the people and said to Moses, "How long will this people despise me? And how long will they refuse to believe in me, in spite of all the signs that I have done among them? I will strike them with pestilence and disinherit them" (vv. 11-12). But Moses interceded and spared the people from this punishment. "I wonder," says TWW Team Member Mary Sells, "beyond having patience awaiting God's good outcome, what is the way through longings in our own lives? Where does God show up in our emotions and responses when what we want seems impossible?" > **Questions:** When do you find yourself complaining, and how do you deal with your feelings of frustration? How has God been present in your time of waiting, and when have you experienced a good outcome after you have faced a delay? What did you learn from the experience? **Proverbs 3:5***Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not rely on your own insight.* (For context, read [Proverbs 3:1-6](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxtUL-2BBngs4gHqgEeaCN1ihSEkMs2k2mYKyh6gtyWKZYSg8BeWn9DQjD64mxB9QVM2urMv_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmVL7Sy0xUMMdk20jeO-2BAadZ4AlfDB-2FeB2nxfGUk0sGH4Ed6sdskPPj0UOB68KveQpazA5KvqBfpQmdtHlOBOi3LxNw8x-2BQ39njROPgYFUSpBWiuzPP7sn9HoKJly-2F-2FNa-2BWtvq-2B4979bwIOCU76oIjy0RxXPq6NHJkOHgyqo4yig4zPJnzlPWajRpaIv1kNfLnred1wHe8BCGBZzGDyE38A9Kd-2BTW9BRC6-2Fd5ThlgxkKerc0ZnHSv-2BXe8Yrq7GQjJuob4iHaQQvZWcAOYsNqZ7IU-3D).) The question of how to live a good life is at the heart of the Book of Proverbs, a collection of pithy sayings about wisdom, knowledge, justice, righteousness and wealth. The proverbs are ascribed to King Solomon, who has traditionally been linked with wisdom. The third chapter begins with Solomon saying, "My child, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments" (v. 1). He promises "length of days" and "abundant welfare" -- long life and success -- to the child who is willing to follow his instructions (v. 2). A critical teaching is to "Trust in the LORD with all your heart," to be willing to rely on God completely. The alternative is to "rely on your own insight," which is never as clear or illuminating as the insight of God. "In all your ways acknowledge [God], and he will make straight your paths" (v. 6). Through all of the challenges of life, Solomon encourages us to put our trust in God instead of in ourselves. > **Questions:** In what difficult situation did you put your trust in the Lord, and what was the result? When have you relied on your own insight, and what happened? How has your church community kept you focused on God's guidance for life? Be specific. **John 11:1-6***Now a certain man was ill, Lazarus of Bethany, the village of Mary and her sister Martha. Mary was the one who anointed the Lord with perfume and wiped his feet with her hair; her brother Lazarus was ill. So the sisters sent a message to Jesus, "Lord, he whom you love is ill." But when Jesus heard it, he said, "This illness does not lead to death; rather, it is for God's glory, so that the Son of God may be glorified through it." Accordingly, though Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus, after having heard that Lazarus**[*[*b*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxm710weIZqGHxzbXNCbplKf4ANAVozooOE9phVLdGgfqXj49qiBVOZVupDF-2B-2FEyQ7WxG-2Br6DYxdsTESORD1STVQ-3D-3DyqAA_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmVL7Sy0xUMMdk20jeO-2BAadZ4AlfDB-2FeB2nxfGUk0sGH4Ed6sdskPPj0UOB68KveQpXadl4rQI8iObWZLF4siXXF-2FYNUjGK1-2B0jfj5L6aYpng1KlNmkf1Xy-2FOb-2BcrwYGdPLam7j8I-2Fhhj7DjzFkopf1hNgqgcGPwPBpmXBnJypyfv2yBkjFfbfuolc1urhf0GOCi5evhZKAkqu-2FsIN0DwfJUTM7eYeq4iZSCRRMCA3FmJfTX-2FAUECbQRuhLBDlxw9blPJZsGhWtC-2BpAATCQeJ-2FtE-3D)*]* *was ill, he stayed two days longer in the place where he was.* (For context, read [John 11:1-44](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxm710weIZqGHxzbXNCbplKQDhpLGF0IM-2BQr518g5eqUr6uucDXU16sMIShaFSmbcnnUdN_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmVL7Sy0xUMMdk20jeO-2BAadZ4AlfDB-2FeB2nxfGUk0sGH4Ed6sdskPPj0UOB68KveQpXHXoj51pxyjUy9lRwg6bILxTRCBpgFvK-2B-2F47RkKrvsYEmUdF2eoQGItwzehLrs5IspvoDtDe2hesTyLwdkFIYoUCBtRYbyRGx7TTqPZUuOaxRDrt5likmJ5dBwmILTcF-2BQbFrcLojPwvQyYiOmmvMDFll1PKaoNmzg99pG7trHqa3NLvg1MV080yT9TLTU2T2Nk9kEMktKsU6BA7nqJ5Us-3D).) Lazarus of Bethany is mentioned only in the gospel of John, although his sisters Mary and Martha are found in Luke 10:38-42. Sickness was an everyday reality in the first century, and the words "ill" and "illness" are used five times in the first six verses of chapter 11. John tells us that Jesus loves Lazarus, and we know from elsewhere in the gospel that Jesus is a powerful and effective healer. But Jesus delays his trip to see Lazarus, saying that his illness "is for God's glory, so that the Son of God may be glorified through it." During this delay, Lazarus dies. Later, Martha says, "Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died" (v. 21). This belief is repeated by Mary in verse 32. At the end of the story, Jesus says to Martha, "Did I not tell you that if you believed you would see the glory of God?" (v. 40). Then he calls for Lazarus to come out of the tomb, and he does so. The raising of Lazarus reveals God's glory and anticipates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. > **Questions:** When, if ever, have you seen God's plan revealed through a situation in which your expectations were not met, your progress was delayed, or your plans were changed against your will? How did this experience impact your faith? **2 Peter 3:9***The Lord is not slow about his promise, as some think of slowness, but is patient with you, not wanting any to perish but all to come to repentance.* (For context, read [2 Peter 3:](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxlmyVKFPJ81UIalK5tx17PsebAh9SLlLm2PNx2sZUIFhMuREldB6LffWU4ceIhCFWIjJ-_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmVL7Sy0xUMMdk20jeO-2BAadZ4AlfDB-2FeB2nxfGUk0sGH4Ed6sdskPPj0UOB68KveQpbSawVFu0eJ2RVSP0OQ6Vw-2FNKDK7NdACgjiLkvDOWy-2BZXvz6EG8NuIIu5KVhmKFAB2H1k79gv6kB2PozCUPN3q6aJiTR78nO9eW84TLzS2X6clC-2FsYqZlIwJdiP7CwyImdFW4TmODD0JLasqC-2BBN97RDDXt78kFEtJnPti8FGMhecoHXrz57uyeBffF-2FRMydDlNBrruxpeH7EdlbBzJWFBY-3D)[8-15](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxlmyVKFPJ81UIalK5tx17PsebAh9SLlLm2PNx2sZUIFhMuREldB6LffWU4ceIhCFWGucd_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmVL7Sy0xUMMdk20jeO-2BAadZ4AlfDB-2FeB2nxfGUk0sGH4Ed6sdskPPj0UOB68KveQpUZ5WrWERRZtnfl8Z6r1-2Bbx-2BIaR4a9-2FFRWO0gylFBB53BPNJAFmKPa8dww-2BXb21Av-2FUsFDoQ62feQFbqJnCcWUjqnIRwM-2FtCTromPkk1-2Fu4No4oh5uBEyvtbFNvtvE5TsRdhN1aBoIEuJj19R1pQ7kJoeUZwDfWfpMByzWOqgemLzAPIFXzgRd8rSM7-2FWCbvc4DcKb9fZtHQa7xrzyyBJH0-3D).) The first letter of Peter encouraged the Christians in Asia Minor to stay the course in the face of persecution. His second letter was written to members of the church who were being led astray by false teachers who denied that the world would be brought to its conclusion by divine judgment. Pointing out that the world and its flow of events seemed to be moving along quite nicely, these teachers sowed seeds of doubt about the coming judgment of God. But Peter took a strong stand against these scoffers, reminding his fellow Christians "that with the Lord one day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like one day" (v. 8). He wanted them to see that God's time frame was not the same as a human time frame, and that God had an agenda at work: "the Lord is not slow about his promise, as some think of slowness," he argued, "but is patient with you, not wanting any to perish but all to come to repentance." From this perspective, a person could actually "regard the patience of our Lord as salvation" (v. 15). Christians ought to continue in their faith and good works, said Peter, leading "lives of holiness and godliness, waiting for and hastening the coming of the day of God” (vv. 11-12). While they "are waiting for these things," they should strive to be found by the Lord "at peace, without spot or blemish" (v. 14). Peter did not want Christians to abandon their faith and righteous living as they waited for the day when “the heavens will be set ablaze and destroyed and the elements will melt with fire" (v. 12). > **Questions:** When have you faced a trial by fire, and what was the outcome? What problems arise when we try to align God's time frame with our own? How is God's will revealed to you in times of personal difficulty, and in what ways has his patience been shown? How do you think God's patience is a part of his plan of salvation, and why is it connected to repentance? **For Further Discussion** 1. [*The New Yorker*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPM-2FAoCqZmBTTIZMWeLt0pVmrj0mdQMQfVm8bGE3aK2v-2BZvdty2F6m6N3KZO3LwAQbTnyZJxkClJqyhZ7kFalalpKLmxuwIeaidnlSCmyGjHkMP5BqHTOOHhkK5dZxyBOcg-3D-3D1en3_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmVL7Sy0xUMMdk20jeO-2BAadZ4AlfDB-2FeB2nxfGUk0sGH4Ed6sdskPPj0UOB68KveQpYrfI74RLNWtBWuy5k-2F38jLYHA6yegfbYywK4UQOEaTvvKMua0hRMsVna2W2DFsH-2FzYV4XL7kYkKNceKVoBhpYLh3G3A-2F8658upYLPN7dOMx3m7kS1I57yTndBR2Z4PymmgKjfyF48bJCwix6oHyw7s673aQ-2BElhPxg0ZXGbFuolkPUoY8wjbCAg3zwSaUaIcWPzfdNu6W4BgrlzwWhOd7U-3D) tells the story of astronaut Scott Kelly, who returned from space in 2016 after spending more time in space than almost any other person: 520 days. "On this trip, he had taken the longest spaceflight of any American: nearly a year on the International Space Station. He was, in a sense, as accustomed to space as anyone alive. And yet, he told me, 'as I flew longer, the symptoms of returning to Earth were worse.' After he got back to his home, in Houston, he felt nauseated and dizzy. His joints ached under the force of gravity, and the pressure of simply sitting in a chair felt uncomfortable. A ponderous fatigue set in." When have you spent an extended period of time away from home? What was the effect on you? How did you keep yourself healthy: mentally, physically and spiritually? 2. The tendency of people to complain in almost any situation is captured in an old joke about senior citizens at a resort. One says, "Boy, the food at this place is really terrible." The other says, "Yeah, and such small portions." How do you respond when you hear people complaining about their situation? When you are tempted to complain, what do you do to find a sense of peace? 3. TWW Team Member Stan Purdum reflects, "I'm not claustrophobic in the usual sense of that word, but I can feel like a caged tiger in larger limited contexts. For example, several years ago, we vacationed for a week in Aruba, a small Caribbean island nation. We stayed in a resort with lots of eating options and plenty of entertainment, which I became bored with after a couple of days. But I was able to rent a bicycle and by the end of the week, I had explored every road on the island, and I was ready to go home. When we got to the airport to leave, we went through the check-in where they checked our passports, etc. But then it was announced that our outgoing flight was delayed for several hours, so I suggested we return to the other side of the check-in and find some activities to keep us busy, only to learn that once checked in, exiting was not permitted. I felt trapped." When, if ever, have you "felt trapped"? How did you deal with it? What spiritual resources were helpful to you, if any? 4. The phrase "justice delayed is justice denied" signifies that prolonged legal proceedings render justice ineffective, as the delay itself can cause significant harm and erode public trust in the legal system. While this may be true in our nation's legal system, is it necessarily true in God's plan for our lives? When does a delay erode trust in God, and when does it strengthen faith? Discuss. **Responding to the News** As you face delays and difficulties this week, look for signs that God is at work in your life. Pray for patience while awaiting God's outcomes, talk with friends and family about how to manage expectations, and turn to your Christian faith for strength and guidance in times of challenge. **Prayer** Almighty God, we thank you for bringing the astronauts home from their lengthy trip to space. Let us know that you are with us, as you were with them, whenever we are feeling frustrated or abandoned. In Jesus' name. Amen. ****Copyright 2025 Communication Resources**** [Unsubscribe From This List](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/asm/unsubscribe/?user_id=14323725&data=_IYdZzVDltqWlchPjDnik2RvcKMEwnN_Ix_BRSTBz29oMDAwdTAwMCTQHrOLTZegzpwlSX8sbse9kUVgU8VDysuJ0uyBUy8q1FEgSIWmz07NmYXUxRaS9JX4jUrfEp1Ge6HFy9M0NxKKE-u6B9pTcmadLc1g665PHSt24xngPl8H6iFaQdmY-g5VkknrnQ7Wyalwc40OnrMu17TMPlzLU8i0bqucbV6-22zwX64PlfJSjIZP6jBqARzT2jUev_mDCxNXLjQAi-YeqOS-CYa2Th4Q6ZFeqtAHduMfF1zboDYWpOVeBFAFESFqSkGTqxdp6I3dyiw2E8HxAuXce163Y1CIGKuTpuHGdCJUFGmboXRT732jSyfnuRAskUa2yP2836WGSYlXhhhkXBEfY8TdDEyW6KR9Uy93GFhVmRmLsIxVESTfElVPh3N753S5jUGVjtedVt_RwxS7uojYhmCnxaNam81-ehm8VK9HIyT6OMQov1VLP7GHpRFgqfqf4PaYjg5OtsKP-xkx0NnMug6w_NSJc8cNbf3SkQBZ-Cp2XK2KN4eSuG8Ts6pdUJJo3X2CrXq9Qy7VgJBT8nuC5il3YBd1RvHiK6ctpLuoLmu8Vl8x6db1vI48gI3WA7gQPWHAexY74uvyxPQ=) <div>Dear Class Members, The return of two astronauts after nine months on the International Space Station gives The Wired Word an opportunity to look at patience while awaiting God's outcomes, faithful ways to manage expectations, and how our Christian faith can help us when we feel trapped. <center><img src="https://www.thewiredword.com/\_img/tww\_logo\_email.jpg"/></center> Astronauts Return to Earth After Nine Months in Space The Wired Word for the Week of March 30, 2025 In the News <div style="mso-element: para-border-div; border: none; border-bottom: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in 0in 8.0pt 0in;"> "We came up prepared to stay long, even though we planned to stay short," NASA astronaut Butch Wilmore said earlier this month when he, along with astronauts Nick Hague and Sunita "Suni" Williams, spoke from the International Space Station (ISS) in a news conference. "Stay long" was an understatement, since Wilmore and Williams have finally returned to Earth after more than 280 days in space. Their extended mission was the sixth longest in NASA's history. TWW began coverage of this story on July 7, 2024, in the lesson "Astronauts Waiting on Space Station for Spacecraft Repair." At that point, Wilmore and Williams had expected to have an eight-day journey into space, on board the Boeing Starliner for its first crewed flight. But after experiencing helium leaks and thruster malfunctions, NASA decided to keep the astronauts safe on the ISS orbital laboratory. On September 22, 2024, TWW followed up with a lesson titled "Marooned Astronaut is in Constant Contact With Church." The astronauts were told that they would have to stay in space until February 2025, with a plan to ride home on the SpaceX Crew-9 Dragon capsule. Although the February deadline came and went, Wilmore and Williams returned safely to Earth on Tuesday, March 18, in the Crew-9 Dragon capsule, after their voyage ended in a water landing off the coast of Florida. The two astronauts traveled home with NASA astronaut Nick Hague and Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov, the two Crew-9 astronauts who had flown the Dragon capsule to the ISS in September. Although the normal Dragon crew is four astronauts, their mission included only two so that seats would be left open for Williams and Wilmore. "Crew-9 back on Earth," said NASA communications officer Sandra Jones after splashdown, according to USA Today. Their ride home was made possible by the arrival of four astronauts selected for SpaceX Crew-10, which replaced Crew-9 at the ISS. Wilmore and Williams needed seats on a Space-X capsule, since NASA had decided to bring the Boeing Starliner home for repair without astronauts last September. At that time, the Starliner landed safely by parachute in the New Mexico desert. Although Crew-10 was originally scheduled to fly in February, NASA changed the launch date twice. Initially, the launch was pushed to late March, in order to give SpaceX more time to prepare a new Dragon capsule. Then, the date was moved to mid-March, when NASA decided to use a "previously flown" Dragon. Williams and Wilmore are experienced NASA astronauts who have now completed three trips involving orbit around the Earth. Although they had to fill a great deal of time on the ISS, they have downplayed the strain of the extended mission, insisting that their unexpected nine-month stay was simply part of the job of being an astronaut. They filled their time by serving Expedition 72, which NASA says was focused on exploring "a variety of space phenomena to benefit humans on and off the Earth including pharmaceutical manufacturing, advanced life support systems, genetic sequencing in microgravity, and more." Among their other activities, Wilmore did one spacewalk in January, and Williams did two. Williams and Wilmore have spoken about how they relished their extra time in space, never feeling that they were trapped on the ISS. When PBS asked them if they felt stuck or abandoned, Williams said that she would not characterize it in that way, "We're part of a bigger process," she said. "It's about our obligation to our international partners and fulfilling the world-class science that we're doing up here on the International Space Station." After admitting that he and Williams did not bring much in the way of clothing, Wilmore said, "The space station program plans for multiple contingencies. We stockpile food to last four months beyond what is expected, at a minimum. Some -- most times, it's longer than that, food and other amenities, wet wipes, everything that you need up here. It takes a lot for human spaceflight, for humans to live in space since the year 2000." Wilmore and Williams are now able to reunite with their families and friends as they recover from the toll of the lengthy mission. Before departing the ISS, the four astronauts flying on the Crew-9 capsule spent a few days helping the members of Crew-10 to familiarize themselves with the orbital lab and station operations. Crew-10 will soon be part of NASA's Expedition 73 and will do scientific experiments on the ISS for about six months. </div> More on this story can be found at these links: <div style="mso-element: para-border-div; border: none; border-bottom: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in 0in 8.0pt 0in;"> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPA7ousAV-2BR-2F5mS0DDmLU4DBv4b31J1wi3JRJUorxrPpcuKwiMnGZ0hSh2Kh1FrRB8q7DClWq46WnJsTQGnqxPZ1bh5HILNGKhkoGw0gFpDsHMyZvwJsqPMo3YrEzkQdbeg-3D-3DAj7Z\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmVL7Sy0xUMMdk20jeO-2BAadZ4AlfDB-2FeB2nxfGUk0sGH4Ed6sdskPPj0UOB68KveQpRyjlUVs9XnatXOIf3s1bn0JUYEw8YzCtqvp-2FJZ-2FnA0ZqIaG64ClvLchnnr8blg7HrDUkxS7OfHYecrNxkSHYD2L-2F1k8vmLgTm39Lj4mzyJsnFOeqhtG5xFiIOtVHR7tUwPLS2JlAxD-2BVwwv6g8heRrFjKdjvntiMyhPkY7i9p-2BnfKdRLLsj-2F-2BDUx9ARhgOiE8dIgPWUFu80DTB1x8cr6Z8-3D">Starliner Astronauts Are Back: Butch Wilmore, Suni Williams Land With Crew-9 in Florida. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPA7ousAV-2BR-2F5mS0DDmLU4DBv4b31J1wi3JRJUorxrPpcuKwiMnGZ0hSh2Kh1FrRB8q7DClWq46WnJsTQGnqxPZ1bh5HILNGKhkoGw0gFpDsHMyZvwJsqPMo3YrEzkQdbeg-3D-3DzsTy\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmVL7Sy0xUMMdk20jeO-2BAadZ4AlfDB-2FeB2nxfGUk0sGH4Ed6sdskPPj0UOB68KveQpRhe7JGzh1x2FG-2BBMNC-2BLWkCVUObxkhpF3khEjmgNOIM1gr4W0Jf3tStipiIZfYloTcluXLJAt-2FFaLJEK6sQaS0q-2Fg4W-2FADUqHg7VEPUzNfAi0tRG-2Be8bMGGdIql6Zt50IIM7QVlKPjaY6aHJHEOP6CmsZmKq7czHU3BoTipe2oUpPn6GzBRjJOdBlQgWzWe6fIu1bq0bp2u60q3MZKUrh4-3D">USA Today</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPO-2BHbociXSLETHzSAkrdN0dMx1EgEACx0omEO9H5p3Gwa-2BKVHVZSwn5XyzixYnMSGA-3D-3DmGY8\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmVL7Sy0xUMMdk20jeO-2BAadZ4AlfDB-2FeB2nxfGUk0sGH4Ed6sdskPPj0UOB68KveQpT3w4nN0ZqVfWhchqazOFpBa-2Bj1zKsDEGd-2F3RqDnyHVicXzU1ys4Avj-2FXa9pWnNMBx0I58d19KL2oWpGS-2BEvCoUHyCzPjh50v-2BnnOJ0kQAfX6kosmkiRgyJLtjbTWzXyovqaSFI2722tiSjlnFVK-2B6xDMvznpbY5dgxVFrPAnGFiFSV0T-2FI7JObIA-2F3-2F9yt4MsWmxqOw3b3WdGiejTis60A-3D">Expedition 72. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPO-2BHbociXSLETHzSAkrdN0dMx1EgEACx0omEO9H5p3Gwa-2BKVHVZSwn5XyzixYnMSGA-3D-3DtSN2\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmVL7Sy0xUMMdk20jeO-2BAadZ4AlfDB-2FeB2nxfGUk0sGH4Ed6sdskPPj0UOB68KveQpZNS9poZ5LioA-2BNv4CWtnVnjnM7DVbIqFVPjArMDXdlhrtSS3TOeDJnL7OqMGrZFrYwxTqqbXEY-2B9MX0VYd2FuUgs5lyuO96MvXZNrPQsJywJw3xHhHLaU9RSqcPVyHq3qGQIOl9bFWRJDEH1twTJql2vbvRXwdOOSoSHb4d-2Fymj-2FBSn3Lfd1BcGoqD8O-2FpdnSzY3jH78gBehv9J-2FYMP7jg-3D">NASA Website</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPMzYPNkJ0XZ39JRiWx8F17vC2iFgXKTgfD6Hc8NT1OwsryfPuc2NEcwwBMDu3mIXEEvNb2NHK2cXaJCst-2FswyWYuGUqnewA-2FCtrkJj-2F55ArpXYzaZ-2FoCyqksPfBvkLPVWUciIu1GVJxRx790Rhmn4xJktY1SvBbZJ9-2FGrOF6aDYdm8Gz\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmVL7Sy0xUMMdk20jeO-2BAadZ4AlfDB-2FeB2nxfGUk0sGH4Ed6sdskPPj0UOB68KveQpctqHTTA8pWduNcEOSvv7sjNIzViKFYFdPRuN9dSQuSiSHIvP3YonQ94adrsKy68xItbcalHWx-2FgXIA-2F0hYL53831ZNNoX5h4-2FkBrA-2FSUFFjyyTAQP5b7nz-2BFYwrg8hi0zGV2kpJYIcFDMuD8YHKoIfusXFOtGtNwzyed2joG6ky4CPrRYcp7MziC7F5dSLqZeV6lIl0wPc8KwCCse4e-2F-2FU-3D">Astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore on Their Longer Than Expected Stay in Space. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPMzYPNkJ0XZ39JRiWx8F17vC2iFgXKTgfD6Hc8NT1OwsryfPuc2NEcwwBMDu3mIXEEvNb2NHK2cXaJCst-2FswyWYuGUqnewA-2FCtrkJj-2F55ArpXYzaZ-2FoCyqksPfBvkLPVWUciIu1GVJxRx790Rhmn4xJktY1SvBbZJ9-2FGrOF6aDYdn5Q7\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmVL7Sy0xUMMdk20jeO-2BAadZ4AlfDB-2FeB2nxfGUk0sGH4Ed6sdskPPj0UOB68KveQpQ2RPzDkU6Ju5yVdsc7mAlP0pml67PtLjF9H4CM2fUIxESiTBRFIO7ejtHh2rAzTaEfCS8cCAKAF65-2FqWakI6fTsjd-2F9h05OF4kiOfod4rDuQHo2dQdRmiAmaQ8UV5AAWFgAsca69IWG38B7P3BqE1pbz62Sk-2BwNN9EsUHysDKDZEmQsCbCnRtdEp8ZE3-2B9kHT9H4VdO8hFrOsxgqT37T5w-3D">PBS News</a> </div> Applying the News Story Reflect on a time when your expectations were not met, your progress was delayed, or your plans were changed against your will. Discuss the value of patience while awaiting God's outcomes, faithful ways to manage expectations, and how our Christian faith can help us when we feel trapped. The Big Questions 1. When have you embarked on a trip or an assignment that you thought would be short, but turned out to be long? How did you handle the change -- mentally, emotionally and spiritually? 2. In what situations has your patience been tested? When has your progress been delayed, and how did you respond? When, if ever, have God's outcomes become clear to you after a time of waiting? 3. When astronaut Suni Williams was asked if she felt stuck on the ISS, she said, "We're part of a bigger process." As a Christian, what is the "bigger process" that you are a part of, and how does this awareness help you to deal with delays or frustrations? 4. How does the church teach you faithful ways to manage expectations and deal with setbacks? What more could it do to help you? 5. What aspects of your Christian faith help you when you are feeling trapped? When does your faith help you to feel at peace with your situation, and when does it give you courage and guidance to change your circumstances? Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion: Numbers 14:1-2 Then all the congregation raised a loud cry, and the people wept that night. And all the Israelites complained against Moses and Aaron; the whole congregation said to them, "Would that we had died in the land of Egypt! Or would that we had died in this wilderness!" (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxipKmMB4V5Lv9UivoVYw8ZtwkGEL8OumwGz4PiSNHF2RY07MlnyqlgleC-2FgO-2B9stNwqrW\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmVL7Sy0xUMMdk20jeO-2BAadZ4AlfDB-2FeB2nxfGUk0sGH4Ed6sdskPPj0UOB68KveQpQHXIzr3g58X-2FOqeyFE-2FOhe9ZaFkAWLfLa7DOdHyj1mKXgwlGhMJr1dgrpxRiw5urgNZzIpl0BViYWA0KjWPvBTc1ZgmquyhYZthiqJ0NQ-2B2dHi47QfrSoR4d5uriUtjhVBsbFqxs6BfmyEhPqCM9Awy41K8HQXu60qGvXeDy-2Fqg07bSjVg2zQtqkl0S2oKOgHezmIj2bjiPmELADNZ26p0-3D">Numbers 14:1-16.</a>) <div style="mso-element: para-border-div; border: none; border-bottom: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-bottom-alt: none windowtext 0in; padding: 0in 0in 8.0pt 0in;"> Because it is filled with many numbers and census lists, the fourth book of the Bible is called "Numbers." But the Hebrew tradition calls the book Bamidbar, which is translated into English as "in the wilderness." The people of Israel remain in the wilderness for the length of this book, moving from Mount Sinai toward the Promised Land. As the people of Israel traveled through the wilderness, they complained against Moses and Aaron, saying, "Would that we had died in the land of Egypt!" They expected a quick and comfortable trip to the Promised Land, and they began to complain when their expectations were not met. Although they had been enslaved in Egypt, they were so miserable in the wilderness that they said to one another, "Let us choose a captain and go back to Egypt" (v. 4). God became frustrated with the people and said to Moses, "How long will this people despise me? And how long will they refuse to believe in me, in spite of all the signs that I have done among them? I will strike them with pestilence and disinherit them" (vv. 11-12). But Moses interceded and spared the people from this punishment. "I wonder," says TWW Team Member Mary Sells, "beyond having patience awaiting God's good outcome, what is the way through longings in our own lives? Where does God show up in our emotions and responses when what we want seems impossible?" <blockquote> Questions: When do you find yourself complaining, and how do you deal with your feelings of frustration? How has God been present in your time of waiting, and when have you experienced a good outcome after you have faced a delay? What did you learn from the experience? </blockquote> </div> Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not rely on your own insight. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxtUL-2BBngs4gHqgEeaCN1ihSEkMs2k2mYKyh6gtyWKZYSg8BeWn9DQjD64mxB9QVM2urMv\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmVL7Sy0xUMMdk20jeO-2BAadZ4AlfDB-2FeB2nxfGUk0sGH4Ed6sdskPPj0UOB68KveQpazA5KvqBfpQmdtHlOBOi3LxNw8x-2BQ39njROPgYFUSpBWiuzPP7sn9HoKJly-2F-2FNa-2BWtvq-2B4979bwIOCU76oIjy0RxXPq6NHJkOHgyqo4yig4zPJnzlPWajRpaIv1kNfLnred1wHe8BCGBZzGDyE38A9Kd-2BTW9BRC6-2Fd5ThlgxkKerc0ZnHSv-2BXe8Yrq7GQjJuob4iHaQQvZWcAOYsNqZ7IU-3D">Proverbs 3:1-6</a>.) The question of how to live a good life is at the heart of the Book of Proverbs, a collection of pithy sayings about wisdom, knowledge, justice, righteousness and wealth. The proverbs are ascribed to King Solomon, who has traditionally been linked with wisdom. The third chapter begins with Solomon saying, "My child, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments" (v. 1). He promises "length of days" and "abundant welfare" -- long life and success -- to the child who is willing to follow his instructions (v. 2). A critical teaching is to "Trust in the LORD with all your heart," to be willing to rely on God completely. The alternative is to "rely on your own insight," which is never as clear or illuminating as the insight of God. "In all your ways acknowledge [God], and he will make straight your paths" (v. 6). Through all of the challenges of life, Solomon encourages us to put our trust in God instead of in ourselves. <blockquote> Questions: In what difficult situation did you put your trust in the Lord, and what was the result? When have you relied on your own insight, and what happened? How has your church community kept you focused on God's guidance for life? Be specific. </blockquote> John 11:1-6 Now a certain man was ill, Lazarus of Bethany, the village of Mary and her sister Martha. Mary was the one who anointed the Lord with perfume and wiped his feet with her hair; her brother Lazarus was ill. So the sisters sent a message to Jesus, "Lord, he whom you love is ill." But when Jesus heard it, he said, "This illness does not lead to death; rather, it is for God's glory, so that the Son of God may be glorified through it." Accordingly, though Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus, after having heard that Lazarus[<a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxm710weIZqGHxzbXNCbplKf4ANAVozooOE9phVLdGgfqXj49qiBVOZVupDF-2B-2FEyQ7WxG-2Br6DYxdsTESORD1STVQ-3D-3DyqAA\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmVL7Sy0xUMMdk20jeO-2BAadZ4AlfDB-2FeB2nxfGUk0sGH4Ed6sdskPPj0UOB68KveQpXadl4rQI8iObWZLF4siXXF-2FYNUjGK1-2B0jfj5L6aYpng1KlNmkf1Xy-2FOb-2BcrwYGdPLam7j8I-2Fhhj7DjzFkopf1hNgqgcGPwPBpmXBnJypyfv2yBkjFfbfuolc1urhf0GOCi5evhZKAkqu-2FsIN0DwfJUTM7eYeq4iZSCRRMCA3FmJfTX-2FAUECbQRuhLBDlxw9blPJZsGhWtC-2BpAATCQeJ-2FtE-3D">b</a>] was ill, he stayed two days longer in the place where he was. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxm710weIZqGHxzbXNCbplKQDhpLGF0IM-2BQr518g5eqUr6uucDXU16sMIShaFSmbcnnUdN\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmVL7Sy0xUMMdk20jeO-2BAadZ4AlfDB-2FeB2nxfGUk0sGH4Ed6sdskPPj0UOB68KveQpXHXoj51pxyjUy9lRwg6bILxTRCBpgFvK-2B-2F47RkKrvsYEmUdF2eoQGItwzehLrs5IspvoDtDe2hesTyLwdkFIYoUCBtRYbyRGx7TTqPZUuOaxRDrt5likmJ5dBwmILTcF-2BQbFrcLojPwvQyYiOmmvMDFll1PKaoNmzg99pG7trHqa3NLvg1MV080yT9TLTU2T2Nk9kEMktKsU6BA7nqJ5Us-3D">John 11:1-44</a>.) Lazarus of Bethany is mentioned only in the gospel of John, although his sisters Mary and Martha are found in Luke 10:38-42. Sickness was an everyday reality in the first century, and the words "ill" and "illness" are used five times in the first six verses of chapter 11. John tells us that Jesus loves Lazarus, and we know from elsewhere in the gospel that Jesus is a powerful and effective healer. But Jesus delays his trip to see Lazarus, saying that his illness "is for God's glory, so that the Son of God may be glorified through it." During this delay, Lazarus dies. Later, Martha says, "Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died" (v. 21). This belief is repeated by Mary in verse 32. At the end of the story, Jesus says to Martha, "Did I not tell you that if you believed you would see the glory of God?" (v. 40). Then he calls for Lazarus to come out of the tomb, and he does so. The raising of Lazarus reveals God's glory and anticipates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. <blockquote> Questions: When, if ever, have you seen God's plan revealed through a situation in which your expectations were not met, your progress was delayed, or your plans were changed against your will? How did this experience impact your faith? </blockquote> 2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slow about his promise, as some think of slowness, but is patient with you, not wanting any to perish but all to come to repentance. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxlmyVKFPJ81UIalK5tx17PsebAh9SLlLm2PNx2sZUIFhMuREldB6LffWU4ceIhCFWIjJ-\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmVL7Sy0xUMMdk20jeO-2BAadZ4AlfDB-2FeB2nxfGUk0sGH4Ed6sdskPPj0UOB68KveQpbSawVFu0eJ2RVSP0OQ6Vw-2FNKDK7NdACgjiLkvDOWy-2BZXvz6EG8NuIIu5KVhmKFAB2H1k79gv6kB2PozCUPN3q6aJiTR78nO9eW84TLzS2X6clC-2FsYqZlIwJdiP7CwyImdFW4TmODD0JLasqC-2BBN97RDDXt78kFEtJnPti8FGMhecoHXrz57uyeBffF-2FRMydDlNBrruxpeH7EdlbBzJWFBY-3D">2 Peter 3:</a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxlmyVKFPJ81UIalK5tx17PsebAh9SLlLm2PNx2sZUIFhMuREldB6LffWU4ceIhCFWGucd\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmVL7Sy0xUMMdk20jeO-2BAadZ4AlfDB-2FeB2nxfGUk0sGH4Ed6sdskPPj0UOB68KveQpUZ5WrWERRZtnfl8Z6r1-2Bbx-2BIaR4a9-2FFRWO0gylFBB53BPNJAFmKPa8dww-2BXb21Av-2FUsFDoQ62feQFbqJnCcWUjqnIRwM-2FtCTromPkk1-2Fu4No4oh5uBEyvtbFNvtvE5TsRdhN1aBoIEuJj19R1pQ7kJoeUZwDfWfpMByzWOqgemLzAPIFXzgRd8rSM7-2FWCbvc4DcKb9fZtHQa7xrzyyBJH0-3D">8-15</a>.) The first letter of Peter encouraged the Christians in Asia Minor to stay the course in the face of persecution. His second letter was written to members of the church who were being led astray by false teachers who denied that the world would be brought to its conclusion by divine judgment. Pointing out that the world and its flow of events seemed to be moving along quite nicely, these teachers sowed seeds of doubt about the coming judgment of God. But Peter took a strong stand against these scoffers, reminding his fellow Christians "that with the Lord one day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like one day" (v. 8). He wanted them to see that God's time frame was not the same as a human time frame, and that God had an agenda at work: "the Lord is not slow about his promise, as some think of slowness," he argued, "but is patient with you, not wanting any to perish but all to come to repentance." From this perspective, a person could actually "regard the patience of our Lord as salvation" (v. 15). Christians ought to continue in their faith and good works, said Peter, leading "lives of holiness and godliness, waiting for and hastening the coming of the day of God” (vv. 11-12). While they "are waiting for these things," they should strive to be found by the Lord "at peace, without spot or blemish" (v. 14). Peter did not want Christians to abandon their faith and righteous living as they waited for the day when “the heavens will be set ablaze and destroyed and the elements will melt with fire" (v. 12). <blockquote> Questions: When have you faced a trial by fire, and what was the outcome? What problems arise when we try to align God's time frame with our own? How is God's will revealed to you in times of personal difficulty, and in what ways has his patience been shown? How do you think God's patience is a part of his plan of salvation, and why is it connected to repentance? </blockquote> For Further Discussion 1. <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPM-2FAoCqZmBTTIZMWeLt0pVmrj0mdQMQfVm8bGE3aK2v-2BZvdty2F6m6N3KZO3LwAQbTnyZJxkClJqyhZ7kFalalpKLmxuwIeaidnlSCmyGjHkMP5BqHTOOHhkK5dZxyBOcg-3D-3D1en3\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmVL7Sy0xUMMdk20jeO-2BAadZ4AlfDB-2FeB2nxfGUk0sGH4Ed6sdskPPj0UOB68KveQpYrfI74RLNWtBWuy5k-2F38jLYHA6yegfbYywK4UQOEaTvvKMua0hRMsVna2W2DFsH-2FzYV4XL7kYkKNceKVoBhpYLh3G3A-2F8658upYLPN7dOMx3m7kS1I57yTndBR2Z4PymmgKjfyF48bJCwix6oHyw7s673aQ-2BElhPxg0ZXGbFuolkPUoY8wjbCAg3zwSaUaIcWPzfdNu6W4BgrlzwWhOd7U-3D">The New Yorker </a>tells the story of astronaut Scott Kelly, who returned from space in 2016 after spending more time in space than almost any other person: 520 days. "On this trip, he had taken the longest spaceflight of any American: nearly a year on the International Space Station. He was, in a sense, as accustomed to space as anyone alive. And yet, he told me, 'as I flew longer, the symptoms of returning to Earth were worse.' After he got back to his home, in Houston, he felt nauseated and dizzy. His joints ached under the force of gravity, and the pressure of simply sitting in a chair felt uncomfortable. A ponderous fatigue set in." When have you spent an extended period of time away from home? What was the effect on you? How did you keep yourself healthy: mentally, physically and spiritually? 2. The tendency of people to complain in almost any situation is captured in an old joke about senior citizens at a resort. One says, "Boy, the food at this place is really terrible." The other says, "Yeah, and such small portions." How do you respond when you hear people complaining about their situation? When you are tempted to complain, what do you do to find a sense of peace? 3. TWW Team Member Stan Purdum reflects, "I'm not claustrophobic in the usual sense of that word, but I can feel like a caged tiger in larger limited contexts. For example, several years ago, we vacationed for a week in Aruba, a small Caribbean island nation. We stayed in a resort with lots of eating options and plenty of entertainment, which I became bored with after a couple of days. But I was able to rent a bicycle and by the end of the week, I had explored every road on the island, and I was ready to go home. When we got to the airport to leave, we went through the check-in where they checked our passports, etc. But then it was announced that our outgoing flight was delayed for several hours, so I suggested we return to the other side of the check-in and find some activities to keep us busy, only to learn that once checked in, exiting was not permitted. I felt trapped." When, if ever, have you "felt trapped"? How did you deal with it? What spiritual resources were helpful to you, if any? 4. The phrase "justice delayed is justice denied" signifies that prolonged legal proceedings render justice ineffective, as the delay itself can cause significant harm and erode public trust in the legal system. While this may be true in our nation's legal system, is it necessarily true in God's plan for our lives? When does a delay erode trust in God, and when does it strengthen faith? Discuss. Responding to the News As you face delays and difficulties this week, look for signs that God is at work in your life. Pray for patience while awaiting God's outcomes, talk with friends and family about how to manage expectations, and turn to your Christian faith for strength and guidance in times of challenge. Prayer Almighty God, we thank you for bringing the astronauts home from their lengthy trip to space. Let us know that you are with us, as you were with them, whenever we are feeling frustrated or abandoned. In Jesus' name. Amen. 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