The Wired Word for 08172025 - CourtneyR.dev's 2nd Brain

The Wired Word for 08/17/2025 ![rw-book-cover](https://www.thewiredword.com/touch-icon-iphone-retina.png) ## Metadata - Author: [[The Wired Word]] - Full Title: The Wired Word for 08/17/2025 - Category: #articles - Document Note: --- tags: [#JimLovell, #Apollo13, #LeadershipUnderPressure] Author: The Wired Word Team Source: The Wired Word – Weekly Lesson (Aug 17, 2025) Reference: https://thewiredword.com date created: 2025-08-16 14:32 --- # Title: Jim Lovell’s Life & Leadership – Lessons from Apollo 13 and Beyond ## 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) --- ## 📝 Summary: The Wired Word’s August 17, 2025, lesson honors astronaut Jim Lovell, famed commander of Apollo 13, who died at age 97. Lovell’s career embodied courage, faith, and grace under extreme pressure. The article recounts his leadership in bringing the Apollo 13 crew home safely after an oxygen tank explosion, his other space missions, and his spiritual reflections—particularly the Apollo 8 Genesis reading. It connects these historical moments to biblical teachings on strength in weakness, God’s guidance, and praising God through creation. --- ## 📖 Main Content: The narrative blends biography, history, and theology: - **Historical Context**: Lovell’s personal and professional life—from his Navy service to four space flights—culminated in leading Apollo 13 through one of NASA’s most famous crises. - **Faith Integration**: Scripture connections emphasize resilience, divine guidance, and the perspective gained from seeing Earth from space. - **Practical Application**: Readers are encouraged to apply lessons of grace under pressure, reliance on God, and leadership to personal challenges. --- ## 🗒️ Notes - **Early Life & Career** - Born 1928, Milwaukee; father died early; raised by his mother. - Overcame rejection from the Naval Academy, later accepted and graduated in 1952. - Married Marilyn Gerlach; 4 children; long marriage until her passing in 2023. - **NASA Career** - Flew 715 hours in space—the most in Mercury, Gemini, Apollo programs. - Apollo 8: First crew to orbit the Moon; famous Christmas Eve Genesis reading broadcast. - Apollo 13: Oxygen tank explosion; used lunar module as lifeboat; slingshot trajectory around Moon to return to Earth. - **Leadership Under Pressure** - Calm, decisive leadership; optimism prevented despair. - Navigation without instruments in Navy incident—guided by bioluminescent plankton. - **Scripture Connections** - **Genesis 1:1-2** – God’s creation; unity of humanity. - **Psalm 148:1-6** – All creation praises God. - **John 16:13** – Spirit of truth guides to safety and truth. - **2 Corinthians 12:8-9** – Strength perfected in weakness. - **Themes** - Grace under pressure. - Seeing humanity from a higher perspective. - Miracles often involve active participation. - Transforming “successful failures” into growth. --- ## 📖 References: - Washington Post, Fox News, NYT obituaries. - Apollo 13 mission transcripts and NASA archives. - The Wired Word Aug 17, 2025 lesson plan. --- ## 🗣️ Paraphrase: 1. **Original**: “We were all test pilots, and the only thing we could do was try to get home. The idea of despair never occurred to us…” **Paraphrase**: As seasoned test pilots, our only focus was survival—returning home—without entertaining the notion of giving up. 2. **Original**: “A miracle is something you have to do yourself, or have people help you.” **Paraphrase**: Miracles don’t just happen; they require your own action and the support of others. --- ## 📰 Newsletter: > **Leadership Under Pressure: Lessons from Jim Lovell** > This week, we remember Apollo 13 commander Jim Lovell—an astronaut, leader, and man of faith—who passed away at 97. Lovell’s career wasn’t just about going farther than most humans; it was about navigating crises with calm, courage, and trust in God’s guidance. From the famous Apollo 8 Genesis reading to guiding a crippled spacecraft home, his life reminds us that grace under pressure is a learned skill—and sometimes, “miracles” require our own steady hands. Explore how these principles apply to your leadership, your faith, and your daily challenges. --- ## ✅ Action Items: - Use Lovell’s biography as a case study in leadership workshops. - Integrate Apollo 8 Genesis reading into faith-based discussions on unity and perspective. - Share “miracle as action” concept in open-source contributor onboarding as a resilience principle. - Draw parallels between space mission contingency planning and software project risk management. --- ## 🧪 Hypotheses: 1. Studying real-world crisis leadership improves decision-making under pressure. 2. Spaceflight perspectives can enhance global empathy and cooperation. 3. Scripture integrated with leadership narratives increases message retention in adult learners. --- ### 📊 Methodology: - Compare pre/post survey results of leadership trainees exposed to Lovell’s case. - Analyze thematic resonance of space imagery in faith discussions. - Use qualitative coding of participant reflections. --- ### ❓ Questions: - How does “grace under pressure” manifest in modern non-space contexts? - What parallels exist between Apollo mission teamwork and open-source collaboration? - Can viewing Earth from space tangibly increase environmental stewardship? --- ### 🔮 Future Research: - Longitudinal study of crisis leadership narratives in education. - Cross-cultural analysis of Apollo 8 broadcast reception. - Effects of integrating space exploration stories in faith-based curricula. --- ### 💡 Implications: - Enhances leadership development by anchoring lessons in real history. - Encourages cross-disciplinary learning between science, leadership, and theology. --- ## 🧠 Learning Styles Assessment: - **Visual**: NASA imagery, mission diagrams present; could add annotated Apollo 13 trajectory maps. - **Aural**: Apollo 8 broadcast audio available; could include Lovell interviews. - **Verbal**: Rich storytelling; could expand glossary of spaceflight terms. - **Physical**: Could add interactive simulations of Apollo navigation. - **Logical**: Clear problem-solving sequences; could include decision trees. - **Social**: Group discussion prompts included. - **Solitary**: Reflection questions provided. - **Naturalistic**: Space-Earth perspective fosters planetary awareness. --- ## 📊 Accessibility Assessment: - Ensure transcripts for audio/video. - Provide alt text for mission images. - Use high-contrast colors in presentation slides. --- ## 🌍 DEIB Assessment: - Highlights teamwork across backgrounds (NASA crews). - Could add diverse global reactions to Apollo 8/13. - Language accessible; could define technical jargon for non-native English speakers. --- ## ✅ Logical validity: - **Strengths**: Factual mission accounts; scripture connections well-supported. - **Weaknesses**: Minor reliance on popular culture (Tom Hanks portrayal) could be mistaken for fact—clarified in text. - No major fallacies found. --- ## DARVO Analysis: - No DARVO tactics; narrative is commemorative and educational. --- ## 🔍 SEO Evaluation: - **Keywords**: Jim Lovell, Apollo 13, leadership under pressure, grace under pressure. - **Meta**: Should summarize with “Jim Lovell’s life, Apollo 13 crisis leadership, faith lessons.” - **Headers**: Good structure for SEO; include “Apollo 13 leadership” in subheadings. - **Links**: Add outbound links to NASA archives. - **Images**: Optimize Apollo photos with alt text. --- ## 🎯 Conclusion: Jim Lovell’s life is a masterclass in steady leadership, faith-infused resilience, and global perspective. The Wired Word’s framing connects history, scripture, and personal application, making his story a powerful tool for leadership training, spiritual growth, and interdisciplinary education. - Summary: Astronaut Jim Lovell, portrayed by Tom Hanks in the movie Apollo 13, was a legendary leader in human space flight. - URL: mailto:reader-forwarded-email/23d7fe6ca08ae17220505c69614de28b Dear Class Members, Astronaut Jim Lovell, portrayed by Tom Hanks in the movie *Apollo 13*, was a legendary leader in human space flight. His death leads us to focus this installment of *The Wired Word* on looking at humanity from the perspective of space, grace under pressure, and trusting God to show us the path forward. ![](https://www.thewiredword.com/_img/tww_logo_email.jpg) **Apollo 13 Moon Mission Commander Jim Lovell Dead at 97*****The Wired Word*** **for the Week of August 17, 2025** **In the News** U.S. Navy Captain James A. (Jim) Lovell, commander of Apollo 13, has died. On Friday, August 8, his family issued a statement saying that they had lost their beloved father, "a Navy pilot and officer, astronaut, leader, and space explorer." He died one day earlier in Lake Forest, Illinois, at age 97. His family went on to say that they were "enormously proud of his amazing life and career accomplishments, highlighted by his legendary leadership in pioneering human space flight. ... But, to all of us, he was Dad, Granddad, and the Leader of our family. Most importantly, he was our Hero. We will miss his unshakeable optimism, his sense of humor, and the way he made each of us feel we could do the impossible. He was truly one of a kind." Lovell's remarkable life began with hardship. *The Washington Post* reports that he was an only child, raised by his mother after his father died in a car crash in 1933. He spent most of his youth in Milwaukee and then applied to the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis. Initially rejected, he attended the University of Wisconsin for two years, and then applied again to the academy and was accepted. In 1952, three hours after his graduation, he married his high school sweetheart, Marilyn Gerlach, to whom he was married until her death in 2023. The couple had four children, 11 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren. According to *Fox News*, Lovell was on Apollo 13 in 1970, along with fellow crew members Fred Haise and John Swigert, taking part in NASA's third mission to the moon. The spacecraft experienced an in-space emergency when a critical oxygen tank exploded during the mission. Under Lovell's leadership, the spacecraft safely returned to earth. Twenty-five years later, Lovell was played by Tom Hanks in the movie *Apollo 13*, directed by Ron Howard. The phrase "Houston, we have a problem," was Hanks' version of Lovell's call to NASA ground control after the explosion rocked the spaceship. It has become part of the American lexicon, a way of signaling that something is terribly amiss. But the movie engaged in artistic license, according to *The New York Times*. In the real-life Apollo 13, it was the command module pilot Swigert who first told NASA that there was trouble. There can be no doubt, however, that Lovell's grace under pressure helped to save the entire crew. The three astronauts used the undamaged lunar module, which had been designed to descend to the moon with Lovell and Swigert, as a lifeboat for the three men. But the lunar lander had limited oxygen, since it was designed to carry only two astronauts for up to two days. All three members of the crew crowded into the lunar module, and then the spacecraft looped around the moon before making a slingshot-like maneuver back toward Earth. Lovell maneuvered the rocket firing to get the spacecraft on a course for the trip home. As the astronauts approached Earth, they moved back into the nearly lifeless command module, needing its heat shield for the descent through the Earth's atmosphere. After jettisoning the lunar module, the astronauts tapped the last of the command module's battery power and reserve oxygen to make it to a safe splashdown in the Pacific. As they struggled to survive in space, Lovell said that they had no fear. "We were all test pilots, and the only thing we could do was try to get home," he told *The New York Times.* "The idea of despair never occurred to us, because we were always optimistic we would get home." In a statement, NASA Director Sean Duffy said, "Jim's character and steadfast courage helped our nation reach the moon and turned a potential tragedy into a success from which we learned an enormous amount. We mourn his passing even as we celebrate his achievements." Duffy added that Lovell "helped our nation forge a historic path in space that carries us forward to upcoming Artemis missions to the moon and beyond." Apollo 13 was not Lovell's first space mission. *The New York Times* reports that Lovell started out as a Navy test pilot and then flew for 715 hours in space, the most of any astronaut in the pioneering Mercury, Gemini and Apollo programs. He took part in two Gemini missions that orbited Earth and was one of the three astronauts aboard Apollo 8, the first spaceflight to orbit the moon, before he was chosen by NASA for Apollo 13. In competition with the Soviet Union, the United States was determined to put a man on the moon by the end of the 1960s, which was achieved with Apollo 11. "As the Command Module Pilot for Apollo 8," said Duffy, "Jim and his crewmates became the first to lift off on a Saturn V rocket and orbit the moon, proving that the lunar landing was within our reach. As commander of the Apollo 13 mission, his calm strength under pressure helped return the crew safely to Earth and demonstrated the quick thinking and innovation that informed future NASA missions." NASA's verdict was that Apollo 13 was a "successful failure," offering the space agency valuable experience in crew rescue. More on this story can be found at these links: [Jim Lovell, Astronaut Who Commanded Apollo 13, Dies at 97.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPOwEDRUAVktcmVsOsspgy0Uyufu8m-2BUHLJkjeiA9T8w7YckCd9S2FYDzeHaNOIkSnZCmvkFQPqN07dqY9HGpPHW1qweop7E4qddPYqYzNI94C0qh_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZi2BRf88ce7gP2TKDD51fJbV1fZGmfr4sxRLZDCupZ1PogSXQ1ZatmhSmTrkbfmkRrIE-2FTrMO9UXFi81toeoTwY3ISSJgrxt3BRrVIYO7Y65U3nGXD719sh1AW6mwK9pdL4jQQaL4wFV1IO6C2GL-2BcQyTXEOeupvLqz5x1AZIaoWiyXpQQ9-2FwvHdmrfEHVWq-2F8qr7cqcbUcE0bujol1M5OogSXZP-2F1nlDOLf43UYjXI6-2FFOYoVxwlhwRQfQVFCviyJEbIVK95XZaEnPBqv2b3M-3D) [*The Washington Post*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPOwEDRUAVktcmVsOsspgy0Uyufu8m-2BUHLJkjeiA9T8w7YckCd9S2FYDzeHaNOIkSnZCmvkFQPqN07dqY9HGpPHW1qweop7E4qddPYqYzNI94-adh_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZi2BRf88ce7gP2TKDD51fJbV1fZGmfr4sxRLZDCupZ1PogSXQ1ZatmhSmTrkbfmkR9LBtxdVtx-2FT09-2FwIKSqbdioAyi3mgzz5FWxQo0fH-2F1TLz4yy2Rh1yppMrHHMENGhgIG4mPOGEBVCUJnxYnJbeVJwHuGUrYvQojf7rwzgBRVQMYrO-2FbFOks-2FuAdPp8Tpg3HJYGtUxgGQe4UamfNBuy2zzOK0kksOScvOtla-2B01DioWzY77HpI2ENspRTAJCLVV-2Fk557-2BzPHzu3NAOa-2B6bc-3D) [Famed Apollo 13 Moon Mission Commander Jim Lovell Dead at 97.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPNnRLkPfLAMpP6p3RttiMUFjubi1R01ph-2BrW-2BqCowTRpdg5P-2BUQANZ2ziOTCLZpXpJovCNHLSM201TtDJxz09jhn78sIkYtjvhcn9SD9g-2FGO0xUC_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZi2BRf88ce7gP2TKDD51fJbV1fZGmfr4sxRLZDCupZ1PogSXQ1ZatmhSmTrkbfmkTCcyOE4RqXYm6JVXMlwJc00SD-2FJiI497NHqYNrQhKQRZdEv8uR5h5ZDfr9q0W2H5d7GveENuNSC4ngsE0-2FnKiUPzn-2BQ8-2Bx1CeivGjJTkUCo1mMYE8MwvzLMH431Tp3yNS6Wwom5-2FwWSThNxqvu3DrXuRLa8SfahIDZ78Rr2nM3vp133MU59hjVzmDpkyz59u6sKgyErup0tfZDwSb3dzHo-3D) [*Fox News*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPNnRLkPfLAMpP6p3RttiMUFjubi1R01ph-2BrW-2BqCowTRpdg5P-2BUQANZ2ziOTCLZpXpJovCNHLSM201TtDJxz09jhn78sIkYtjvhcn9SD9g-2FGOp9bL_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZi2BRf88ce7gP2TKDD51fJbV1fZGmfr4sxRLZDCupZ1PogSXQ1ZatmhSmTrkbfmkV3El6WPjy5tYg2FpZOuUiRGKMREGwgezB3vf-2B6jtPtKn7Rdk1Js66uigW-2F3-2BpiiGZ-2FQBJGABzjBQJ4Fsjq73sLuyExtEB0ZVzvu3GkVrDrmYG9xjA-2FpWBjw-2BBvFSeSEub-2FSsdVZPOoFVEZl6Xf04qtDjIJ1pv-2Fc4Tt0p-2Brk-2BEHaKuHWAZ-2F2duB-2Fxp-2BwxLGDO7dYffVjwEm6r4jSsXPf4K0-3D) [Astronaut James Lovell, Commander of Apollo 13, Dies at 97.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPJjqs9eTHTvMgxKUxOrSDPrE8H97luEUjNuD-2Bc07ETCEHLz1iBKVZr3Gd-2Frj0I8Pguvam4CelfjSvmN1bSFDVBZRTpiOHaao5G8-2FvbAGQynkTOzU_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZi2BRf88ce7gP2TKDD51fJbV1fZGmfr4sxRLZDCupZ1PogSXQ1ZatmhSmTrkbfmkT0g2fLDT8HtSlhRYMIPGJqoJIfiTNFdVt6UVh8nN-2FIEIQsKTC3FoF2UR5BVgJxM1ZDBe5oH-2FDXhCIlTMOUDsDwiKfogB3BsEobTDfAYVXPWPgfWMX4TzA6oQ32LQofiBw4lfaw3HTHAdh9YL7CdN4kTOmK-2BduWm5xcnN6hr-2B7GZSNU050HurXfQgk-2FZsDg1O3E3Ekhcy9QzVz6zhu6oOF8-3D) [*The New York Times*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPJjqs9eTHTvMgxKUxOrSDPrE8H97luEUjNuD-2Bc07ETCEHLz1iBKVZr3Gd-2Frj0I8Pguvam4CelfjSvmN1bSFDVBZRTpiOHaao5G8-2FvbAGQynk1Xo9_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZi2BRf88ce7gP2TKDD51fJbV1fZGmfr4sxRLZDCupZ1PogSXQ1ZatmhSmTrkbfmkd2uAB25qjmKYWoahkNUx7J8rGbsJiNRahIVHY84l1eDvNviW3EiqdDTu6cAjD3KLzGqYn2zRT-2BbJQFtB9mJItVgoPhSUhG7Y0b9kIvJtIcyfR1zuSYiF8E79-2FIw8T9ZdkrpT7beBqeg3VvslUazG2Fdwyc4fHVxLZHcK9zI20g-2B3i57umj-2FCNl5PgZpdmbeKybqdokyZ1Rravf1Z4romRU-3D) **Applying the News Story** Use Jim Lovell's remarkable life as an opportunity to look at humanity from the perspective of space, discuss grace under pressure, and explore what it means to trust God to show you the path forward. **The Big Questions** 1. According to his family, Jim Lovell was a Navy pilot, military officer, astronaut and space explorer, as well as a father, grandfather and leader of his family. Of these, which would you consider to be the greatest of Lovell's accomplishments? What do you consider to be *your* greatest accomplishment? Why do you feel this way? 2. Astronauts can look at humanity from the perspective of space. What do you think they observe? How can such an "otherworldly" perspective help us with our current earthly difficulties? 3. "We do not realize what we have on Earth until we leave it," [Lovell said after his Apollo 13 landing](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPOwEDRUAVktcmVsOsspgy0Uyufu8m-2BUHLJkjeiA9T8w7YckCd9S2FYDzeHaNOIkSnZCmvkFQPqN07dqY9HGpPHW1qweop7E4qddPYqYzNI94rr_x_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZi2BRf88ce7gP2TKDD51fJbV1fZGmfr4sxRLZDCupZ1PogSXQ1ZatmhSmTrkbfmkauyFHTLABUqXNc5qlsQcXC81r-2F-2FN3jW3i9qNpW3C0paDV0VnnToTgoB2GO2p-2BIbdpDkzL3065tycAeGtjZEGw4JlK3yJ2NL53JCMQH57Ek3exGcVu-2BhbLA-2Fggt2X9Ilp-2FZXE16Ud12WibLsypJR9RuW2n-2F6H0tbMRAnnr25JGxdqUuSGfj131plipx4Nlde-2BWZ3lHFkSs-2F7kqz8l95vqF8-3D). What do you think he meant? Where do you find value in your life on Earth as an individual, as part of a family, and as a member of a church? 4. Lovell showed tremendous grace under pressure as he commanded Apollo 13. When have you been called upon to show similar courage? How did you succeed and how did you fall short? What did you learn from the experience? 5. The crew of Apollo 13 faced a life-threatening emergency and found a path to safety. When, if ever, have you been challenged in this way? What resources, spiritual or otherwise, would you find to be of value in such a situation? **Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope**Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion: **Genesis 1:1-2 (KJV)***In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.* (For context, read [Genesis 1:1-19](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxdxvwvUIbrGNsYJ-2B9LkHJNa8oP3Qt0c6n4chzfn4ZvGw-2BBFcCvQ9NSwJm3EpHv1UPdTFd_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZi2BRf88ce7gP2TKDD51fJbV1fZGmfr4sxRLZDCupZ1PogSXQ1ZatmhSmTrkbfmkXay992pCaYP-2FNb-2F1vgDra9chSSIT3Z2sLaeBvrg4-2FCm8MirCzYNRUaK-2BWIncR8SZb4ab8fkAP3O-2B-2FJsXrpQShnTBdKZbIdmY3KB0Mn3E4pyoMn1xUiotnjn-2FI8gcb3AAWy2mBy32nx5h2mx1T-2Fo8Een3wxZ9oADiO30-2BBEgX9gXhoOLf6pHRDX-2F-2B79YDglA0TlD80lHjkIgAyq5spXEq04-3D).) On Christmas Eve in 1968, Jim Lovell, William Anders and Frank Borman were orbiting the moon. As the astronauts of Apollo 8, they spent the holiday taking turns reading from the beginning of the book of Genesis. Looking back at the Earth through the window of the spacecraft, they started by reading the verse, "In the beginning, God made the heavens and the Earth." Their reading of Genesis was broadcast live to the whole planet over radio and television. "It was one of those moments that brought the world together," [wrote Eric Metaxas in](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPDX-2Fst4HOqlE5iX-2FCL-2FhJEhGuvmI29FYbDp7MNfkwwzjY3y006NB3hFeDMLuhfbo0wjveP2Urrjz23tVwav9cVZo00H708A-2BkQvCNxh3x5nrBMhG83qA7sZc3k7R50RXqg-3D-3Duq_W_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZi2BRf88ce7gP2TKDD51fJbV1fZGmfr4sxRLZDCupZ1PogSXQ1ZatmhSmTrkbfmkaiyfUg6pBc6AHVR8OuOMuv184L12KUE4R23RMvHR14TEzr0Zqr-2F-2Bre692-2FbWEtKeU7sbUbqtiorVhmkE2nzZ-2BBU5TA8uPW928eHqlVbb9hT8XlygBliDkLDy8EWuqU45nareeptesBL3jFx-2FvU9xNn1rJVmgG1fuDesH7rXDMz5pSpaghfZotwyqHOS2DgUSvsrZp7wHw7cuLmmlg8HIJo-3D) [*The Wall Street Journal*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPDX-2Fst4HOqlE5iX-2FCL-2FhJEhGuvmI29FYbDp7MNfkwwzjY3y006NB3hFeDMLuhfbo0wjveP2Urrjz23tVwav9cVZo00H708A-2BkQvCNxh3x5nrBMhG83qA7sZc3k7R50RXqg-3D-3DMqoV_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZi2BRf88ce7gP2TKDD51fJbV1fZGmfr4sxRLZDCupZ1PogSXQ1ZatmhSmTrkbfmkSJYlC3HSKkry3SG5TGT8nFHWEWid2UFGOfaqEzpiohXaz-2F3faExUy4Rz6cLPi0HxTQydBbrt1EHmoOtm1Ck6scOKQyrVtVtxHYWNpocjVVrJVlPNMQ8cCfclj3RyPD2AkS8wJ0QOVRTmtlSWXKQp9ZpaUZsTtbLfPbeA5-2F1Y-2BBWPA7PcV-2BgGV5XbfuCG1RtpMaAp2jTQah0QOZN-2BKjc590-3D)*,* one of those moments "that helped us to see our common humanity as children of God." The astronauts reminded us that God loves us equally, and has placed us together on a beautiful and precious planet. They could see, from outer space, the truth that had been first discovered by the poet Dante: God is the "love that moves the Sun and the other stars." Lovell often spoke of how NASA, in the 1960s, was able to bring our country together in pursuit of a common goal. TWW Team Member Frank Ramirez notes that the Apollo 8 astronauts were the only ones in the Apollo era in which the entire crew remained married to their original spouses. There was not one divorce among them, an unusual circumstance considering the intense pressure the astronauts and their families were under. > **Questions:** In what ways did this particular Bible reading bring the world together, and in what ways did it have no effect? What insight would you gain -- into humanity as a whole or into your own family commitments -- if you were looking at the Earth from the moon? How can reading the Bible here on Earth expand our understanding in a similar way? **Psalm 148:1-6** *Praise the LORD! Praise the LORD from the heavens; praise him in the heights! Praise him, all his angels; praise him, all his host! Praise him, sun and moon; praise him, all you shining stars! Praise him, you highest heavens and you waters above the heavens! Let them praise the name of the LORD, for he commanded and they were created. He established them forever and ever; he fixed their bounds, which cannot be passed.* (No context needed.) Psalm 148 is a song of praise which repeats the imperative to praise God twelve times. The first six verses issue a call to praise God from the heavens, and the last eight verses contain a call to praise God from the earth. Surprisingly, it is not just humans who are to praise, but "sun and moon" are to praise God, as well as "shining stars." Both the "highest heavens" and the "waters above the heavens" are to praise God -- in the world of the Bible, the sky was a dome that "separated the waters that were under the dome from the waters that were above the dome" (Genesis 1:7). Although we no longer think of the sky as a dome, we can understand the ancient view that heavy rains fall when the heavens open -- in fact, we still use that expression today. Every aspect of the natural world has been created by God, and he is worthy of praise because he "established them forever and ever." > **Questions:** How do you experience the natural world praising God? When you see images of the Earth from space, or pictures of distant galaxies, what feelings arise for you? How does scientific insight bring you closer to God, if at all? **John 16:13***When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own but will speak whatever he hears, and he will declare to you the things that are to come.* (For context, read [John 16:12-15](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxxRMgP-2BMZTq2hLjCFHQ09sUD-2Bx3WSG3z-2BlQYIi7tGNAZ0-2B4-2BTn-2FNCsdIGu20FJbVi1Csa_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZi2BRf88ce7gP2TKDD51fJbV1fZGmfr4sxRLZDCupZ1PogSXQ1ZatmhSmTrkbfmke7N-2BV9PUQAQB8sosMvc-2FAJDYegWTnocoddJjFcH5v6lO-2FwBByQKg-2BAmKXbWTSZqE6SsAniDzsdoxbKjb3jeTnYZ2c8b0PX9027t3ckePEOwScEeFfLXJuLcfwDi5ZP6ao0ZjtmDHmYWLp6N1XhNiQ4L91rLGi-2B-2BtKbNk9s7-2BMvK51SOgwEoxkuod4NsMm0LSU2YXEajfDuiZhPiFa8-2F5LY-3D).) When Jim Lovell faced the challenge of guiding Apollo 13 to safety, he was able to draw on a previous experience. Early in his career, he was a pilot in the United States Navy, and while flying one night he faced a life-and-death situation as he attempted to land on an aircraft carrier. Lovell's instruments failed, and he could not see his ship, the *USS Shangri-La*. There were no lights on the carrier. He learned from the radio that he was approaching the stern of the ship, but he could not tell if he would crash into it or overshoot it. To survive, he needed to make a surgically precise landing, with zero visibility and no instruments. Suddenly, from the darkness of his cockpit, [Lovell noticed a faint glow in the shimmering and darkening water beneath him](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPLroj4qiYq7wO2nkO-2FAex7lFb7smqUpFGKa3Q9-2FQ4UalJOtLCY8xUTRhmX3Mq92Hgg-3D-3DCyZm_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZi2BRf88ce7gP2TKDD51fJbV1fZGmfr4sxRLZDCupZ1PogSXQ1ZatmhSmTrkbfmkZ9A0W1zghVPskoQ8RFmtK7JVl0vCSeJI0PwQAB1qQSNEijpWd9PFmtOFXAWyX0A2u6bvi1Ce9OQJOPxggaW8HJfLNMSms9wS5C0JaB1EO8mWdoSjEjtYEjnV-2FzrXOXWi1kr-2F9m-2BjF427TFYPLYMhwWd2KVURUBCgz1fOluOZUTtzDle7IGILABnZf-2FOTwcXCkUfO9Hb6S-2Ff-2BTfE150byHk-3D). He recognized it as the light of planktonic algae that lived in the Pacific, stirred up by the carrier's giant propeller. Using the ribbon of light as his guide, he held his plane steady and brought it in for a safe landing. In the gospel of John, Jesus promises his followers that when "the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth." Although the earthly ministry of Jesus has come to an end, we can trust that the Holy Spirit will continue to guide us in the way of Jesus and toward our heavenly home. > **Questions:** In the movie *Apollo 13*, Jim Lovell (played by Tom Hanks) reflects on this experience and says that you never know what events "transpire to get you home." When have you felt yourself being guided to safety, by "the Spirit of truth" or an earthly phenomenon? What do such experiences teach you about God's activity in the world? **2 Corinthians 12:8-9***Three times I appealed to the Lord about this, that it would leave me, but he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness." So I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me.* (For context, read [2 Corinthians 12:1-10](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzx5N3asDrM8aLtAZM6HVDt1fMYPR5dCUTJx86dIcngDobOOI1PciKXnXEBVxfJVEat7VBb7MsQGk9JnYn7fjXodw-3D-3DnueE_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZi2BRf88ce7gP2TKDD51fJbV1fZGmfr4sxRLZDCupZ1PogSXQ1ZatmhSmTrkbfmka0gH8HEVDyTacUDlrSv2DpEy4Qq67Q-2Fej9Gl6BNtL-2B20Um89S1ZJtUARWBMFMB-2BvG-2BuQ0TvyWq9TbC-2BeorL6sp-2BmDv0la1xZkiAefdETxht-2BeGKZjQ9ibq-2B291nt6Wl8IRgM7lrNpPjskKiDnaf2S6wvMQ9RXBkem0J-2F-2FwKlcU01toHE43sTHuFKMMFgBA8jWeEXVuQrxICpU1S4ZowIhU-3D).) Writing to the followers of Christ in the Greek city of Corinth, the apostle Paul says that he is "content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities for the sake of Christ" (v. 10). Paul can show tremendous grace and strength under pressure because Christ's "grace is sufficient" for him, and because "power is made perfect in weakness." He trusts that "the power of Christ" will live in him. > **Questions:** What enables you to show grace and strength under pressure? Be specific. When have you felt the power of Christ within you? How does an acknowledgement of weakness or vulnerability or need enable Christ's grace and power to be activated? **For Further Discussion** 1. NASA's verdict was that Apollo 13 was a "successful failure," offering the space agency valuable experience in crew rescue. TWW Team Member Frank Ramirez "thinks of martyrs, from Jesus through Stephen, and others, who might be considered failures but are considered successes by the faith community." When have you experienced a "successful failure," and what did you learn from it? How does God transform struggles into successes, in individual lives and in the life of the church? 2. "There are people who dare, who dream, and who lead others to places we would not go on our own," actor [Tom Hanks said in a statement posted to Instagram](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPGeDIcCxhgqUd6TjRaSxXNAWoGnGrRF0FhnUzvKm2tXKvuERYQ8wqAN2qIZxn9BuyA-3D-3D3DU7_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZi2BRf88ce7gP2TKDD51fJbV1fZGmfr4sxRLZDCupZ1PogSXQ1ZatmhSmTrkbfmkSR2beaXqPxhCNib5OQ3saBLEoKC3vGApHk-2FJYNpqpEwGtdexWYLgaDLn697znB4ES3GqAKcu6Wivl4ITGg1TPkZiQfeoeNgI5kDDYQXKAc94bAu-2BELTqOOlBPZWj8jGzmIu9AzQkjTjW7AkHtNR44sFEadinlYQgEB2YziXTRK1scPzYreTnmQEiVaU1DjHOOTcjqFY-2F7qPlYz9Ij2qSKs-3D). "Jim Lovell, who for a long while had gone farther into space and for longer than any other person of our planet, was that kind of guy." In your life, who has dared, dreamed and led you to a new place? What persons in the Bible or in the Christian community have done this for you? 3. "I really learned that you can't suddenly have a problem, and then just you know, close your eyes and hope there's a miracle coming on, because the miracle is something you have to do yourself, or having people to help you," [Jim Lovell told NASA's "Houston, We Have a Podcast" in 2020](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPK6a6o4vUorgSaoTqckc9hhAUoZ-2BqFAVE9ow4Uf50YLXnhRnW3YHREibC8Ooszt-2FvBHLEXPMORwfa7xtgS3rR9g-3DyUZP_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZi2BRf88ce7gP2TKDD51fJbV1fZGmfr4sxRLZDCupZ1PogSXQ1ZatmhSmTrkbfmkfHmEzy7lO-2F2818famZ1VC2JS9vkAUJCfGHy2XwHGKcW5jvR5AW2H49IaGLLQAouZ4-2BKLU4J2t0RNO7Xm4QWFB91dVK63ZkfkHnsKmFv2fW82GnZ45pL5Cz4ZnZCF9JeQLZunAHCE6Wa688MqpdnO7bRgmCRlSnLrPHYzDvkHLYy1WPM1LnSwMXST8Ne-2BRZrAPPsoqVTQDiWpuYQflUNWgg-3D). Respond to Lovell's assertion that a "miracle is something you have to do yourself" or along with people "to help you." 4. Apollo 8 came at a time when the country needed hope, [Lovell recalled in 2008](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIkAuaCOvKvE-2FpINA6VMCHwCgvvekDz40pqJTl7OWQbMX4PUFhBbqeCFmHF9eTMW9fi2N88FRSwcJzF4XKU42jc-3D4XUV_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZi2BRf88ce7gP2TKDD51fJbV1fZGmfr4sxRLZDCupZ1PogSXQ1ZatmhSmTrkbfmkWjxdqeHwN-2B9bZ6a9ts93G0ILYq4X2g6IPaipCJrt5z7oK7cJDswSDrlfKRSd8syYnmI-2BDZJIFOT4xvn13DINQMPIqqK2FrKujkBB7fee0R-2FHZ3wKEmU2IIdVEILaMnkfjHjQPyu8u5M5zWtj3bTSoqzl1Bzu3xqv2kcI0fsdk06n-2FxpDY7tp0v02hFsuB-2BwTBlHuFtzE6kAGIH3I45EVss-3D). The year 1968 included the assassinations of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and Sen. Robert F. Kennedy, doubts of a victory in Vietnam after the Tet offensive, and showdowns between police and anti-war protestors during the Democratic National Convention. "Providence happened to put everything together at the end of the year to give the American public an uplift after what had been a poor year," Lovell said. What kind of uplift do we need today, in your opinion? How do you sense God is at work to lead the American public to a better place? **Responding to the News** Imagine yourself looking down from space at the United States, your community, your church and your family. Allow this perspective to shape the decisions you make this week. Trust the grace of Jesus to be sufficient as you face your challenges, and ask for his help in being strong and faithful under pressure. Believe that God is with you, to show you the path forward. **Prayer** God of heaven and Earth, we join the sun and the moon in praising you! Thank you for giving us life in a community on this beautiful and precious planet. May your Spirit give us strength and guide us into all the truth, as we walk the path of your Son Jesus, showing his grace and love to others. Amen. ****Copyright 2025 Communication Resources**** [Unsubscribe From This List](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/asm/unsubscribe/?user_id=14323725&data=03kGbpCkR8X5Xssdi_9e7ruvVksI9yMBcyO6BneTIJ9oMDAwdTAwMJKmkKFXdtU1WwPnse0Voq1X6fESsM03lC5GLj32o2dTvBbkh-5CJL7XlY2iWeh1MouEZKpyi1W7m5XwtrHxg52uy8GXuitxbut7fS9qmP0g3G_kYYZfCwJw3Jg0n-YoQhIrfsZO6LM1RKDNWMxtpYLPikUtnR7pk0QRjHEAEyzFf2_ZQGjmmVINnJfPgKgb9X8EgahYrhv4535YABpNGqFuqnUS85e_UsnamhBFa3fTrwJagHgxd84k1v-fKbEvaH5RZj2rRos0aqFTYMlI9w3byvu-DkHv3tHLOaEa37EQze8hNi8qluxp7PjBt5VhGcqa18TrAWITRYYRBOWtalPiBd7fQDla4J9dwGmC0TWGLqdUqPkLW4KdLRG7jKQCmctnn6DQOW0SPJCkCAFzSQXoS6ySLvH4UXQ5viKkje8J7MHfcz9hsDw-NTI2xBI0euKd62xRJTeljNFb8sedBWQE8yZ_J-SyDqGIUfurXUfH3nztTaazcS8ZJqvXKRy69qHBlpj4SpLuBi4RpOSIwYGz1fbhSItEM9pqeP5YeNp5IYVZVi8WN62ipQf-TRFV2PtfUG-LkM3bMpK0aL3wvec=) <div>Dear Class Members, Astronaut Jim Lovell, portrayed by Tom Hanks in the movie Apollo 13, was a legendary leader in human space flight. His death leads us to focus this installment of The Wired Word on looking at humanity from the perspective of space, grace under pressure, and trusting God to show us the path forward. <center><img src="https://www.thewiredword.com/\_img/tww\_logo\_email.jpg"/></center> Apollo 13 Moon Mission Commander Jim Lovell Dead at 97 The Wired Word for the Week of August 17, 2025 In the News U.S. Navy Captain James A. (Jim) Lovell, commander of Apollo 13, has died. On Friday, August 8, his family issued a statement saying that they had lost their beloved father, "a Navy pilot and officer, astronaut, leader, and space explorer." He died one day earlier in Lake Forest, Illinois, at age 97. His family went on to say that they were "enormously proud of his amazing life and career accomplishments, highlighted by his legendary leadership in pioneering human space flight. ... But, to all of us, he was Dad, Granddad, and the Leader of our family. Most importantly, he was our Hero. We will miss his unshakeable optimism, his sense of humor, and the way he made each of us feel we could do the impossible. He was truly one of a kind." Lovell's remarkable life began with hardship. The Washington Post reports that he was an only child, raised by his mother after his father died in a car crash in 1933. He spent most of his youth in Milwaukee and then applied to the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis. Initially rejected, he attended the University of Wisconsin for two years, and then applied again to the academy and was accepted. In 1952, three hours after his graduation, he married his high school sweetheart, Marilyn Gerlach, to whom he was married until her death in 2023. The couple had four children, 11 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren. According to Fox News, Lovell was on Apollo 13 in 1970, along with fellow crew members Fred Haise and John Swigert, taking part in NASA's third mission to the moon. The spacecraft experienced an in-space emergency when a critical oxygen tank exploded during the mission. Under Lovell's leadership, the spacecraft safely returned to earth. Twenty-five years later, Lovell was played by Tom Hanks in the movie Apollo 13, directed by Ron Howard. The phrase "Houston, we have a problem," was Hanks' version of Lovell's call to NASA ground control after the explosion rocked the spaceship. It has become part of the American lexicon, a way of signaling that something is terribly amiss. But the movie engaged in artistic license, according to The New York Times. In the real-life Apollo 13, it was the command module pilot Swigert who first told NASA that there was trouble. There can be no doubt, however, that Lovell's grace under pressure helped to save the entire crew. The three astronauts used the undamaged lunar module, which had been designed to descend to the moon with Lovell and Swigert, as a lifeboat for the three men. But the lunar lander had limited oxygen, since it was designed to carry only two astronauts for up to two days. All three members of the crew crowded into the lunar module, and then the spacecraft looped around the moon before making a slingshot-like maneuver back toward Earth. Lovell maneuvered the rocket firing to get the spacecraft on a course for the trip home. As the astronauts approached Earth, they moved back into the nearly lifeless command module, needing its heat shield for the descent through the Earth's atmosphere. After jettisoning the lunar module, the astronauts tapped the last of the command module's battery power and reserve oxygen to make it to a safe splashdown in the Pacific. As they struggled to survive in space, Lovell said that they had no fear. "We were all test pilots, and the only thing we could do was try to get home," he told The New York Times. "The idea of despair never occurred to us, because we were always optimistic we would get home." In a statement, NASA Director Sean Duffy said, "Jim's character and steadfast courage helped our nation reach the moon and turned a potential tragedy into a success from which we learned an enormous amount. We mourn his passing even as we celebrate his achievements." Duffy added that Lovell "helped our nation forge a historic path in space that carries us forward to upcoming Artemis missions to the moon and beyond." Apollo 13 was not Lovell's first space mission. The New York Times reports that Lovell started out as a Navy test pilot and then flew for 715 hours in space, the most of any astronaut in the pioneering Mercury, Gemini and Apollo programs. He took part in two Gemini missions that orbited Earth and was one of the three astronauts aboard Apollo 8, the first spaceflight to orbit the moon, before he was chosen by NASA for Apollo 13. In competition with the Soviet Union, the United States was determined to put a man on the moon by the end of the 1960s, which was achieved with Apollo 11. "As the Command Module Pilot for Apollo 8," said Duffy, "Jim and his crewmates became the first to lift off on a Saturn V rocket and orbit the moon, proving that the lunar landing was within our reach. As commander of the Apollo 13 mission, his calm strength under pressure helped return the crew safely to Earth and demonstrated the quick thinking and innovation that informed future NASA missions." NASA's verdict was that Apollo 13 was a "successful failure," offering the space agency valuable experience in crew rescue. 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; background: white;"> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPOwEDRUAVktcmVsOsspgy0Uyufu8m-2BUHLJkjeiA9T8w7YckCd9S2FYDzeHaNOIkSnZCmvkFQPqN07dqY9HGpPHW1qweop7E4qddPYqYzNI94C0qh\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZi2BRf88ce7gP2TKDD51fJbV1fZGmfr4sxRLZDCupZ1PogSXQ1ZatmhSmTrkbfmkRrIE-2FTrMO9UXFi81toeoTwY3ISSJgrxt3BRrVIYO7Y65U3nGXD719sh1AW6mwK9pdL4jQQaL4wFV1IO6C2GL-2BcQyTXEOeupvLqz5x1AZIaoWiyXpQQ9-2FwvHdmrfEHVWq-2F8qr7cqcbUcE0bujol1M5OogSXZP-2F1nlDOLf43UYjXI6-2FFOYoVxwlhwRQfQVFCviyJEbIVK95XZaEnPBqv2b3M-3D">Jim Lovell, Astronaut Who Commanded Apollo 13, Dies at 97. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPOwEDRUAVktcmVsOsspgy0Uyufu8m-2BUHLJkjeiA9T8w7YckCd9S2FYDzeHaNOIkSnZCmvkFQPqN07dqY9HGpPHW1qweop7E4qddPYqYzNI94-adh\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZi2BRf88ce7gP2TKDD51fJbV1fZGmfr4sxRLZDCupZ1PogSXQ1ZatmhSmTrkbfmkR9LBtxdVtx-2FT09-2FwIKSqbdioAyi3mgzz5FWxQo0fH-2F1TLz4yy2Rh1yppMrHHMENGhgIG4mPOGEBVCUJnxYnJbeVJwHuGUrYvQojf7rwzgBRVQMYrO-2FbFOks-2FuAdPp8Tpg3HJYGtUxgGQe4UamfNBuy2zzOK0kksOScvOtla-2B01DioWzY77HpI2ENspRTAJCLVV-2Fk557-2BzPHzu3NAOa-2B6bc-3D">The Washington Post</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPNnRLkPfLAMpP6p3RttiMUFjubi1R01ph-2BrW-2BqCowTRpdg5P-2BUQANZ2ziOTCLZpXpJovCNHLSM201TtDJxz09jhn78sIkYtjvhcn9SD9g-2FGO0xUC\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZi2BRf88ce7gP2TKDD51fJbV1fZGmfr4sxRLZDCupZ1PogSXQ1ZatmhSmTrkbfmkTCcyOE4RqXYm6JVXMlwJc00SD-2FJiI497NHqYNrQhKQRZdEv8uR5h5ZDfr9q0W2H5d7GveENuNSC4ngsE0-2FnKiUPzn-2BQ8-2Bx1CeivGjJTkUCo1mMYE8MwvzLMH431Tp3yNS6Wwom5-2FwWSThNxqvu3DrXuRLa8SfahIDZ78Rr2nM3vp133MU59hjVzmDpkyz59u6sKgyErup0tfZDwSb3dzHo-3D">Famed Apollo 13 Moon Mission Commander Jim Lovell Dead at 97. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPNnRLkPfLAMpP6p3RttiMUFjubi1R01ph-2BrW-2BqCowTRpdg5P-2BUQANZ2ziOTCLZpXpJovCNHLSM201TtDJxz09jhn78sIkYtjvhcn9SD9g-2FGOp9bL\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZi2BRf88ce7gP2TKDD51fJbV1fZGmfr4sxRLZDCupZ1PogSXQ1ZatmhSmTrkbfmkV3El6WPjy5tYg2FpZOuUiRGKMREGwgezB3vf-2B6jtPtKn7Rdk1Js66uigW-2F3-2BpiiGZ-2FQBJGABzjBQJ4Fsjq73sLuyExtEB0ZVzvu3GkVrDrmYG9xjA-2FpWBjw-2BBvFSeSEub-2FSsdVZPOoFVEZl6Xf04qtDjIJ1pv-2Fc4Tt0p-2Brk-2BEHaKuHWAZ-2F2duB-2Fxp-2BwxLGDO7dYffVjwEm6r4jSsXPf4K0-3D">Fox News</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPJjqs9eTHTvMgxKUxOrSDPrE8H97luEUjNuD-2Bc07ETCEHLz1iBKVZr3Gd-2Frj0I8Pguvam4CelfjSvmN1bSFDVBZRTpiOHaao5G8-2FvbAGQynkTOzU\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZi2BRf88ce7gP2TKDD51fJbV1fZGmfr4sxRLZDCupZ1PogSXQ1ZatmhSmTrkbfmkT0g2fLDT8HtSlhRYMIPGJqoJIfiTNFdVt6UVh8nN-2FIEIQsKTC3FoF2UR5BVgJxM1ZDBe5oH-2FDXhCIlTMOUDsDwiKfogB3BsEobTDfAYVXPWPgfWMX4TzA6oQ32LQofiBw4lfaw3HTHAdh9YL7CdN4kTOmK-2BduWm5xcnN6hr-2B7GZSNU050HurXfQgk-2FZsDg1O3E3Ekhcy9QzVz6zhu6oOF8-3D">Astronaut James Lovell, Commander of Apollo 13, Dies at 97. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPJjqs9eTHTvMgxKUxOrSDPrE8H97luEUjNuD-2Bc07ETCEHLz1iBKVZr3Gd-2Frj0I8Pguvam4CelfjSvmN1bSFDVBZRTpiOHaao5G8-2FvbAGQynk1Xo9\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZi2BRf88ce7gP2TKDD51fJbV1fZGmfr4sxRLZDCupZ1PogSXQ1ZatmhSmTrkbfmkd2uAB25qjmKYWoahkNUx7J8rGbsJiNRahIVHY84l1eDvNviW3EiqdDTu6cAjD3KLzGqYn2zRT-2BbJQFtB9mJItVgoPhSUhG7Y0b9kIvJtIcyfR1zuSYiF8E79-2FIw8T9ZdkrpT7beBqeg3VvslUazG2Fdwyc4fHVxLZHcK9zI20g-2B3i57umj-2FCNl5PgZpdmbeKybqdokyZ1Rravf1Z4romRU-3D">The New York Times</a> </div> Applying the News Story Use Jim Lovell's remarkable life as an opportunity to look at humanity from the perspective of space, discuss grace under pressure, and explore what it means to trust God to show you the path forward. The Big Questions 1. According to his family, Jim Lovell was a Navy pilot, military officer, astronaut and space explorer, as well as a father, grandfather and leader of his family. Of these, which would you consider to be the greatest of Lovell's accomplishments? What do you consider to be your greatest accomplishment? Why do you feel this way? 2. Astronauts can look at humanity from the perspective of space. What do you think they observe? How can such an "otherworldly" perspective help us with our current earthly difficulties? 3. "We do not realize what we have on Earth until we leave it," <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPOwEDRUAVktcmVsOsspgy0Uyufu8m-2BUHLJkjeiA9T8w7YckCd9S2FYDzeHaNOIkSnZCmvkFQPqN07dqY9HGpPHW1qweop7E4qddPYqYzNI94rr\_x\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZi2BRf88ce7gP2TKDD51fJbV1fZGmfr4sxRLZDCupZ1PogSXQ1ZatmhSmTrkbfmkauyFHTLABUqXNc5qlsQcXC81r-2F-2FN3jW3i9qNpW3C0paDV0VnnToTgoB2GO2p-2BIbdpDkzL3065tycAeGtjZEGw4JlK3yJ2NL53JCMQH57Ek3exGcVu-2BhbLA-2Fggt2X9Ilp-2FZXE16Ud12WibLsypJR9RuW2n-2F6H0tbMRAnnr25JGxdqUuSGfj131plipx4Nlde-2BWZ3lHFkSs-2F7kqz8l95vqF8-3D">Lovell said after his Apollo 13 landing</a>. What do you think he meant? Where do you find value in your life on Earth as an individual, as part of a family, and as a member of a church? 4. Lovell showed tremendous grace under pressure as he commanded Apollo 13. When have you been called upon to show similar courage? How did you succeed and how did you fall short? What did you learn from the experience? 5. The crew of Apollo 13 faced a life-threatening emergency and found a path to safety. When, if ever, have you been challenged in this way? What resources, spiritual or otherwise, would you find to be of value in such a situation? Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion: Genesis 1:1-2 (KJV) In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxdxvwvUIbrGNsYJ-2B9LkHJNa8oP3Qt0c6n4chzfn4ZvGw-2BBFcCvQ9NSwJm3EpHv1UPdTFd\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZi2BRf88ce7gP2TKDD51fJbV1fZGmfr4sxRLZDCupZ1PogSXQ1ZatmhSmTrkbfmkXay992pCaYP-2FNb-2F1vgDra9chSSIT3Z2sLaeBvrg4-2FCm8MirCzYNRUaK-2BWIncR8SZb4ab8fkAP3O-2B-2FJsXrpQShnTBdKZbIdmY3KB0Mn3E4pyoMn1xUiotnjn-2FI8gcb3AAWy2mBy32nx5h2mx1T-2Fo8Een3wxZ9oADiO30-2BBEgX9gXhoOLf6pHRDX-2F-2B79YDglA0TlD80lHjkIgAyq5spXEq04-3D">Genesis 1:1-19</a>.) On Christmas Eve in 1968, Jim Lovell, William Anders and Frank Borman were orbiting the moon. As the astronauts of Apollo 8, they spent the holiday taking turns reading from the beginning of the book of Genesis. Looking back at the Earth through the window of the spacecraft, they started by reading the verse, "In the beginning, God made the heavens and the Earth." Their reading of Genesis was broadcast live to the whole planet over radio and television. "It was one of those moments that brought the world together," <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPDX-2Fst4HOqlE5iX-2FCL-2FhJEhGuvmI29FYbDp7MNfkwwzjY3y006NB3hFeDMLuhfbo0wjveP2Urrjz23tVwav9cVZo00H708A-2BkQvCNxh3x5nrBMhG83qA7sZc3k7R50RXqg-3D-3Duq\_W\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZi2BRf88ce7gP2TKDD51fJbV1fZGmfr4sxRLZDCupZ1PogSXQ1ZatmhSmTrkbfmkaiyfUg6pBc6AHVR8OuOMuv184L12KUE4R23RMvHR14TEzr0Zqr-2F-2Bre692-2FbWEtKeU7sbUbqtiorVhmkE2nzZ-2BBU5TA8uPW928eHqlVbb9hT8XlygBliDkLDy8EWuqU45nareeptesBL3jFx-2FvU9xNn1rJVmgG1fuDesH7rXDMz5pSpaghfZotwyqHOS2DgUSvsrZp7wHw7cuLmmlg8HIJo-3D">wrote Eric Metaxas in </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPDX-2Fst4HOqlE5iX-2FCL-2FhJEhGuvmI29FYbDp7MNfkwwzjY3y006NB3hFeDMLuhfbo0wjveP2Urrjz23tVwav9cVZo00H708A-2BkQvCNxh3x5nrBMhG83qA7sZc3k7R50RXqg-3D-3DMqoV\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZi2BRf88ce7gP2TKDD51fJbV1fZGmfr4sxRLZDCupZ1PogSXQ1ZatmhSmTrkbfmkSJYlC3HSKkry3SG5TGT8nFHWEWid2UFGOfaqEzpiohXaz-2F3faExUy4Rz6cLPi0HxTQydBbrt1EHmoOtm1Ck6scOKQyrVtVtxHYWNpocjVVrJVlPNMQ8cCfclj3RyPD2AkS8wJ0QOVRTmtlSWXKQp9ZpaUZsTtbLfPbeA5-2F1Y-2BBWPA7PcV-2BgGV5XbfuCG1RtpMaAp2jTQah0QOZN-2BKjc590-3D">The Wall Street Journal</a>, one of those moments "that helped us to see our common humanity as children of God." The astronauts reminded us that God loves us equally, and has placed us together on a beautiful and precious planet. They could see, from outer space, the truth that had been first discovered by the poet Dante: God is the "love that moves the Sun and the other stars." Lovell often spoke of how NASA, in the 1960s, was able to bring our country together in pursuit of a common goal. TWW Team Member Frank Ramirez notes that the Apollo 8 astronauts were the only ones in the Apollo era in which the entire crew remained married to their original spouses. There was not one divorce among them, an unusual circumstance considering the intense pressure the astronauts and their families were under. <blockquote> Questions: In what ways did this particular Bible reading bring the world together, and in what ways did it have no effect? What insight would you gain -- into humanity as a whole or into your own family commitments -- if you were looking at the Earth from the moon? How can reading the Bible here on Earth expand our understanding in a similar way? </blockquote> Psalm 148:1-6 Praise the LORD! Praise the LORD from the heavens; praise him in the heights! Praise him, all his angels; praise him, all his host! Praise him, sun and moon; praise him, all you shining stars! Praise him, you highest heavens and you waters above the heavens! Let them praise the name of the LORD, for he commanded and they were created. He established them forever and ever; he fixed their bounds, which cannot be passed. (No context needed.) Psalm 148 is a song of praise which repeats the imperative to praise God twelve times. The first six verses issue a call to praise God from the heavens, and the last eight verses contain a call to praise God from the earth. Surprisingly, it is not just humans who are to praise, but "sun and moon" are to praise God, as well as "shining stars." Both the "highest heavens" and the "waters above the heavens" are to praise God -- in the world of the Bible, the sky was a dome that "separated the waters that were under the dome from the waters that were above the dome" (Genesis 1:7). Although we no longer think of the sky as a dome, we can understand the ancient view that heavy rains fall when the heavens open -- in fact, we still use that expression today. Every aspect of the natural world has been created by God, and he is worthy of praise because he "established them forever and ever." <blockquote> Questions: How do you experience the natural world praising God? When you see images of the Earth from space, or pictures of distant galaxies, what feelings arise for you? How does scientific insight bring you closer to God, if at all? </blockquote> John 16:13 When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own but will speak whatever he hears, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxxRMgP-2BMZTq2hLjCFHQ09sUD-2Bx3WSG3z-2BlQYIi7tGNAZ0-2B4-2BTn-2FNCsdIGu20FJbVi1Csa\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZi2BRf88ce7gP2TKDD51fJbV1fZGmfr4sxRLZDCupZ1PogSXQ1ZatmhSmTrkbfmke7N-2BV9PUQAQB8sosMvc-2FAJDYegWTnocoddJjFcH5v6lO-2FwBByQKg-2BAmKXbWTSZqE6SsAniDzsdoxbKjb3jeTnYZ2c8b0PX9027t3ckePEOwScEeFfLXJuLcfwDi5ZP6ao0ZjtmDHmYWLp6N1XhNiQ4L91rLGi-2B-2BtKbNk9s7-2BMvK51SOgwEoxkuod4NsMm0LSU2YXEajfDuiZhPiFa8-2F5LY-3D">John 16:12-15</a>.) When Jim Lovell faced the challenge of guiding Apollo 13 to safety, he was able to draw on a previous experience. Early in his career, he was a pilot in the United States Navy, and while flying one night he faced a life-and-death situation as he attempted to land on an aircraft carrier. Lovell's instruments failed, and he could not see his ship, the USS Shangri-La. There were no lights on the carrier. He learned from the radio that he was approaching the stern of the ship, but he could not tell if he would crash into it or overshoot it. To survive, he needed to make a surgically precise landing, with zero visibility and no instruments. Suddenly, from the darkness of his cockpit, <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPLroj4qiYq7wO2nkO-2FAex7lFb7smqUpFGKa3Q9-2FQ4UalJOtLCY8xUTRhmX3Mq92Hgg-3D-3DCyZm\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZi2BRf88ce7gP2TKDD51fJbV1fZGmfr4sxRLZDCupZ1PogSXQ1ZatmhSmTrkbfmkZ9A0W1zghVPskoQ8RFmtK7JVl0vCSeJI0PwQAB1qQSNEijpWd9PFmtOFXAWyX0A2u6bvi1Ce9OQJOPxggaW8HJfLNMSms9wS5C0JaB1EO8mWdoSjEjtYEjnV-2FzrXOXWi1kr-2F9m-2BjF427TFYPLYMhwWd2KVURUBCgz1fOluOZUTtzDle7IGILABnZf-2FOTwcXCkUfO9Hb6S-2Ff-2BTfE150byHk-3D">Lovell noticed a faint glow in the shimmering and darkening water beneath him</a>. He recognized it as the light of planktonic algae that lived in the Pacific, stirred up by the carrier's giant propeller. Using the ribbon of light as his guide, he held his plane steady and brought it in for a safe landing. In the gospel of John, Jesus promises his followers that when "the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth." Although the earthly ministry of Jesus has come to an end, we can trust that the Holy Spirit will continue to guide us in the way of Jesus and toward our heavenly home. <blockquote> Questions: In the movie Apollo 13, Jim Lovell (played by Tom Hanks) reflects on this experience and says that you never know what events "transpire to get you home." When have you felt yourself being guided to safety, by "the Spirit of truth" or an earthly phenomenon? What do such experiences teach you about God's activity in the world? </blockquote> 2 Corinthians 12:8-9 Three times I appealed to the Lord about this, that it would leave me, but he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness." So I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzx5N3asDrM8aLtAZM6HVDt1fMYPR5dCUTJx86dIcngDobOOI1PciKXnXEBVxfJVEat7VBb7MsQGk9JnYn7fjXodw-3D-3DnueE\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZi2BRf88ce7gP2TKDD51fJbV1fZGmfr4sxRLZDCupZ1PogSXQ1ZatmhSmTrkbfmka0gH8HEVDyTacUDlrSv2DpEy4Qq67Q-2Fej9Gl6BNtL-2B20Um89S1ZJtUARWBMFMB-2BvG-2BuQ0TvyWq9TbC-2BeorL6sp-2BmDv0la1xZkiAefdETxht-2BeGKZjQ9ibq-2B291nt6Wl8IRgM7lrNpPjskKiDnaf2S6wvMQ9RXBkem0J-2F-2FwKlcU01toHE43sTHuFKMMFgBA8jWeEXVuQrxICpU1S4ZowIhU-3D">2 Corinthians 12:1-10</a>.) Writing to the followers of Christ in the Greek city of Corinth, the apostle Paul says that he is "content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities for the sake of Christ" (v. 10). Paul can show tremendous grace and strength under pressure because Christ's "grace is sufficient" for him, and because "power is made perfect in weakness." He trusts that "the power of Christ" will live in him. <blockquote> Questions: What enables you to show grace and strength under pressure? Be specific. When have you felt the power of Christ within you? How does an acknowledgement of weakness or vulnerability or need enable Christ's grace and power to be activated? </blockquote> For Further Discussion 1. NASA's verdict was that Apollo 13 was a "successful failure," offering the space agency valuable experience in crew rescue. TWW Team Member Frank Ramirez "thinks of martyrs, from Jesus through Stephen, and others, who might be considered failures but are considered successes by the faith community." When have you experienced a "successful failure," and what did you learn from it? How does God transform struggles into successes, in individual lives and in the life of the church? 2. "There are people who dare, who dream, and who lead others to places we would not go on our own," actor <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPGeDIcCxhgqUd6TjRaSxXNAWoGnGrRF0FhnUzvKm2tXKvuERYQ8wqAN2qIZxn9BuyA-3D-3D3DU7\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZi2BRf88ce7gP2TKDD51fJbV1fZGmfr4sxRLZDCupZ1PogSXQ1ZatmhSmTrkbfmkSR2beaXqPxhCNib5OQ3saBLEoKC3vGApHk-2FJYNpqpEwGtdexWYLgaDLn697znB4ES3GqAKcu6Wivl4ITGg1TPkZiQfeoeNgI5kDDYQXKAc94bAu-2BELTqOOlBPZWj8jGzmIu9AzQkjTjW7AkHtNR44sFEadinlYQgEB2YziXTRK1scPzYreTnmQEiVaU1DjHOOTcjqFY-2F7qPlYz9Ij2qSKs-3D">Tom Hanks said in a statement posted to Instagram</a>. "Jim Lovell, who for a long while had gone farther into space and for longer than any other person of our planet, was that kind of guy." In your life, who has dared, dreamed and led you to a new place? What persons in the Bible or in the Christian community have done this for you? 3. "I really learned that you can't suddenly have a problem, and then just you know, close your eyes and hope there's a miracle coming on, because the miracle is something you have to do yourself, or having people to help you,"<a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPK6a6o4vUorgSaoTqckc9hhAUoZ-2BqFAVE9ow4Uf50YLXnhRnW3YHREibC8Ooszt-2FvBHLEXPMORwfa7xtgS3rR9g-3DyUZP\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZi2BRf88ce7gP2TKDD51fJbV1fZGmfr4sxRLZDCupZ1PogSXQ1ZatmhSmTrkbfmkfHmEzy7lO-2F2818famZ1VC2JS9vkAUJCfGHy2XwHGKcW5jvR5AW2H49IaGLLQAouZ4-2BKLU4J2t0RNO7Xm4QWFB91dVK63ZkfkHnsKmFv2fW82GnZ45pL5Cz4ZnZCF9JeQLZunAHCE6Wa688MqpdnO7bRgmCRlSnLrPHYzDvkHLYy1WPM1LnSwMXST8Ne-2BRZrAPPsoqVTQDiWpuYQflUNWgg-3D"> Jim Lovell told NASA's "Houston, We Have a Podcast" in 2020</a>. Respond to Lovell's assertion that a "miracle is something you have to do yourself" or along with people "to help you." 4. Apollo 8 came at a time when the country needed hope, <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIkAuaCOvKvE-2FpINA6VMCHwCgvvekDz40pqJTl7OWQbMX4PUFhBbqeCFmHF9eTMW9fi2N88FRSwcJzF4XKU42jc-3D4XUV\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmZi2BRf88ce7gP2TKDD51fJbV1fZGmfr4sxRLZDCupZ1PogSXQ1ZatmhSmTrkbfmkWjxdqeHwN-2B9bZ6a9ts93G0ILYq4X2g6IPaipCJrt5z7oK7cJDswSDrlfKRSd8syYnmI-2BDZJIFOT4xvn13DINQMPIqqK2FrKujkBB7fee0R-2FHZ3wKEmU2IIdVEILaMnkfjHjQPyu8u5M5zWtj3bTSoqzl1Bzu3xqv2kcI0fsdk06n-2FxpDY7tp0v02hFsuB-2BwTBlHuFtzE6kAGIH3I45EVss-3D">Lovell recalled in 2008</a>. The year 1968 included the assassinations of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and Sen. Robert F. Kennedy, doubts of a victory in Vietnam after the Tet offensive, and showdowns between police and anti-war protestors during the Democratic National Convention. "Providence happened to put everything together at the end of the year to give the American public an uplift after what had been a poor year," Lovell said. What kind of uplift do we need today, in your opinion? How do you sense God is at work to lead the American public to a better place? Responding to the News Imagine yourself looking down from space at the United States, your community, your church and your family. Allow this perspective to shape the decisions you make this week. Trust the grace of Jesus to be sufficient as you face your challenges, and ask for his help in being strong and faithful under pressure. Believe that God is with you, to show you the path forward. Prayer God of heaven and Earth, we join the sun and the moon in praising you! Thank you for giving us life in a community on this beautiful and precious planet. May your Spirit give us strength and guide us into all the truth, as we walk the path of your Son Jesus, showing his grace and love to others. Amen. 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