Her husband, Rick, had been away on a work trip for two weeks. When he didn’t arrive, his co-workers shuffled Evelyn and the children to a private room. That’s where she learned of the catastrophic failure of Space Shuttle Columbia, commanded by Rick. It was February 2003. He was 45.
Rick set his Air Force career on a trajectory aimed at becoming an astronaut. But three failed applications jeopardized his dream. In a moment of insight, he found wisdom in an ancient source: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding” (Prov. 3:5). He chose to prioritize his relationship with God and family and surrendered his dream as beyond his control. Failure humbled but didn’t deter him. NASA accepted him on his fourth try.
His story adds meaning to two of his comments. “Don’t die before you’re dead. Don’t let anything stand in your way of God’s appointed purpose for your life.” He also said, “Even if you do get to be an astronaut … at some point that will come to an end.” It did, but not as anyone expected.
Any story of an untimely death beckons you to look at life from the standpoint of eternity, a theme in the book of Ecclesiastes. Eternity is far more certain than events on earth. “You do not know what misfortune may occur” (11:2) reminds you that you are not in control of future events. “You do not know whether morning or evening sowing will succeed” (11:6) says your control over success and failure is elusive.
So how do you live in light of eternity? “Cast your bread upon the water” (11:1) invites you to let go of whatever you hold as rightfully yours, whether time, possessions, or control. Be content, generous, and patient. “He who watches the wind will not sow” (11:4) cautions you about living small. The reality of risk is no reason to give up on a dream or calling. But realize you take neither success nor failure with you when you depart.
You see the wisdom of living in the light of eternity in Rick Husband’s story. He explains, “Jesus gave His very own life for all of us that we could come into a relationship with God and be with Him in heaven after we die our physical death.” He had no idea how soon he would experience this himself. Evelyn tells the rest of the story in her memoir, “High Calling.”
You’ve only got one life. Enjoy each day as a gift from God, inspired by the greatest gift: eternal life by faith in Christ Jesus. Like Rick Husband, one day you will “slip the surly bonds of earth … put out your hand, and touch the face of God” (John Magee).