Prepared for a Greater Journey

I was reading an article from Reuters about the upcoming Artemis II mission by NASA, and it really caught my attention. Four astronauts—including Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen—are preparing for the first crewed journey toward the moon in over fifty years. They’re set to launch aboard the massive Space Launch System rocket, traveling farther from Earth than any human has in decades. What stood out to me wasn’t just the mission—it was the preparation. These astronauts have spent over two years training, preparing, testing, and getting ready for a journey that will only last about ten days. That got me thinking. So much preparation… for such a short mission.

And yet, in my own life, I can sometimes give so little attention to preparing for what matters most. As believers, we’re not preparing for a ten-day mission—we’re preparing for eternity. But if I’m honest, I can get so caught up in daily responsibilities, schedules, and even ministry, that I neglect the deeper preparation of my heart. These astronauts are carefully trained to handle every scenario—life support, navigation, communication—because where they’re going, they can’t rely on themselves alone. Everything must be right.

I’m reminded that God is preparing me too. Not just for a moment—but for a lifelong walk and an eternal home. And just like those astronauts, I don’t get ready overnight. It takes time in the Word. Time in prayer. Time walking with God when no one else sees it. The quiet disciplines that prepare me for the greater journey ahead.

And here’s the difference—they are preparing to leave earth for a short time and return. I’m preparing to leave this world one day and never come back. That puts things into perspective.

Am I ready? Not just saved—but walking with Him? Growing? Depending on His strength instead of my own? Because when the moment comes, I won’t wish I had been busier—I’ll wish I had been closer to God.