Good News Monday: Asteroid Sample, Tornado Relief, & NASA Astronaut

Today’s Good News at a Glance:

1. A NASA capsule has successfully returned with asteroid samples.

2. Franklin Graham and Samaritan’s Purse offer disaster relief to Kentucky.

3. We revisit our favorite good news story of the week.

Today is Good News Monday. And Saturday was International Podcast Day! We’d like to take this opportunity to thank all of you for your support for this podcast. The news isn’t easy to navigate. There are competing opinions, fact-checking, and false claims everywhere. On top of that, each individual sees the world differently. There’s a risk to tackling the news and offering a Christian perspective. It’s a vulnerable endeavor, but we choose to go for it anyway! We’ve attempted to humbly navigate the news, be self-reflective instead of angry, and rely on Biblical truths to anchor us. Your support of this podcast means the world to us, and we pray that it offers you some hope, insight, and inspiration each and every day.

“… for I was hungry and you gave me food to eat. I was thirsty and you gave me drink. I was a stranger and you took me in.” (Matthew 25:35)

Dear Lord,
Help us to remember that serving others is serving You. Open our eyes to see the needs around us—hunger, thirst, loneliness, and despair—and move our hearts to respond in kind. May we extend our hands in giving, our homes in welcoming, and our hearts in loving, just as You have done for us. Grant us the spirit of generosity and compassion, that we may be instruments of Your grace in a world in need. Let us not overlook the little opportunities to make a big difference in someone’s life, knowing that these acts of kindness are pleasing to You. Thank you, Father, for teaching us the true meaning of service and for giving us countless opportunities to be a blessing to others. In the loving name of Your Son, Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.

Smaller Bites:

Here’s today’s news: cut short and sweet with a prayer…

1. NASA’s First Asteroid Sample: A Leap Toward Unveiling Cosmic Mysteries
NASA's OSIRIS-REx mission successfully returned a capsule containing rocks and dust from the asteroid Bennu, landing it at the Department of Defense’s Utah Test and Training Range. The samples promise to offer insights into the formation of our solar system and potentially hazardous celestial events. The mission, which involved multiple organizations including NASA Goddard, Lockheed Martin Space, and international contributions, exemplifies human collaboration and technological prowess in the pursuit of understanding the cosmos.

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the successful mission of OSIRIS-REx and the potential wisdom it may offer us about Your grand and complex creation. Guide the scientists and researchers who will study these samples, and may their work deepen our understanding of the universe and our place within it. As we contemplate the heavens, let us be ever mindful of the dance between science and faith, each seeking to illuminate the wonder and purpose of Your design. Amen.

2. Franklin Graham’s Samaritan’s Purse Ushers Hope for Kentucky Tornado Survivors

Franklin Graham's international Christian disaster relief group, Samaritan's Purse, responded to the devastating tornadoes in western Kentucky by building a 60-home subdivision called New Hope Acres for those who lost their homes. The first 16 of these fully furnished homes will be officially dedicated and handed over to their new owners free of charge on September 29. Beyond housing, Samaritan's Purse has also provided furniture for 100 families and installed 174 tornado shelters in the region, embodying the Christian principles of charity and compassion.

Lord, we give thanks for the inspiring work of Samaritan's Purse and the generosity and compassion they have shown to those in need. May the residents of New Hope Acres find comfort, safety, and a fresh start in their new homes. Guide us all in our own efforts to extend Your love and grace to our neighbors, especially those facing hardship and adversity. Amen.

3. NASA Astronaut Returns to Earth After Record-Setting Year in Space

NASA astronaut Frank Rubio returned to Earth after a record-breaking 371 days aboard the International Space Station, six months longer than originally planned due to a micrometeorite damaging his return ship. His extended stay not only set the record for the longest spaceflight by an American but also contributed to vital research on heart health and food production in space. While Rubio's accomplishments were significant, he expressed regret for missing key family milestones and looks forward to returning to a quieter life.

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the safe return of Frank Rubio and for the advances in space exploration that contribute to our understanding of Your universe. Grant us the wisdom to balance our professional pursuits with the love and time we give to our families. Remind us always of the irreplaceable value of relationships and the love we share with those closest to us. Amen.

NASA’s First Asteroid Sample: A Leap Toward Unveiling Cosmic Mysteries

After years of painstaking planning and methodical execution, NASA's OSIRIS-REx team achieved a milestone that promises to unlock cosmic secrets. The long-awaited capsule, containing rocks and dust from the asteroid Bennu, touched down safely at the Department of Defense’s Utah Test and Training Range near Salt Lake City. With its landing at 8:52 a.m. MDT on a recent Sunday, humanity moved one step closer to answering some of its most profound questions.

The Logistics of Success
Quickly after landing, within an hour and a half, the capsule was moved to a clean room where it will remain under a continuous nitrogen flow. This move ensures that the integrity of the precious samples remains intact, free from earthly contaminants. This successful landing and preservation mark the conclusion of one phase and the dawn of another—a scientific odyssey to decipher the building blocks of our universe.

Understanding Our Cosmic Roots
One of the most exciting prospects of this endeavor is the deeper understanding it offers about the origin of our solar system, the formation of planets, and the complex organic chemistry that leads to life on Earth. Notably, Bennu is a potentially hazardous asteroid, and the insights gained from these samples could better prepare us for any untoward celestial events in the future.

Uniting Humanity Through Science
NASA Administrator Bill Nelson aptly summed it up, stating that missions like these are not just a scientific feat but an achievement that "inspires us and unites us." From its launch on September 8, 2016, to its arrival at Bennu on December 3, 2018, and eventual return to Earth, the mission is a testament to the possibilities of human collaboration. Hundreds of individuals came together for a cause greater than themselves, proving that nothing is beyond our reach when we work in unity.

The Science of Tomorrow Starts Today
Dante Lauretta, the principal investigator for OSIRIS-REx at the University of Arizona, Tucson, noted that the mission's success marks "just the beginning of another" chapter. The samples will eventually be distributed worldwide for further study, allowing international cooperation in understanding the intricacies of our cosmos. The mission reflects a harmonious blend of technological prowess and the limitless bounds of human curiosity.

The Key Players
The mission was a concerted effort involving multiple organizations. NASA Goddard provided overall mission management, Lockheed Martin Space built the spacecraft, and The University of Arizona, Tucson led the scientific aspects. The international involvement includes contributions from CSA (the Canadian Space Agency) and collaboration with JAXA’s (the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) Hayabusa2 mission, making this not just a national but a global accomplishment.

Reflection
From a Christian standpoint, the successful return of asteroid samples offers an optimistic moment to reflect on the wonders of creation. The Psalmist wrote, "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands" (Psalm 19:1). This scientific endeavor allows us not only to marvel at the complexities of the universe but also to see it as an extension of God's magnificent design.

While science endeavors to answer how the universe works, faith explores the purpose behind its existence. The endeavor to study asteroid Bennu serves as a mirror to our own quest for meaning—how we got here and what ultimate purpose we serve. It serves as a gentle reminder that in the grand scheme of the universe, we are but a small part of God's vast creation, yet significantly important in His eyes.

As we await the revelations that the Bennu samples will bring, it is indeed an occasion to recognize the harmonious dance between science and faith, each affirming the other in their quest for truth and understanding.

In the days ahead, as Asteroid Autumn continues to unfold, let's carry the spirit of unity and the pursuit of knowledge, ever reminded of the divine imprints in the cosmic design.

Franklin Graham’s Samaritan’s Purse Ushers Hope for Kentucky Tornado Survivors

It is often said that when the going gets tough, the tough get going. Franklin Graham and his international Christian disaster relief group, Samaritan's Purse, are a living embodiment of this phrase. It is the feel-good story we all need in trying times—a tale of compassion and resilience.

The Hope Called New Hope Acres
On December 10, 2021, tornadoes wreaked havoc in western Kentucky, a disaster that left an indelible impact on the community. Mayfield was one of the hardest-hit cities, with 57 fatalities and over 500 injuries reported. Franklin Graham didn't just sit by and watch. His organization built an entire 60-home subdivision named New Hope Acres for those who lost their homes.

This Friday, September 29, the first 16 of these homes will be officially dedicated and handed over to their grateful new owners. The homes come fully furnished and—wait for it—absolutely free of charge. Talk about a housewarming gift!

The Human Element
Samaritan’s Purse is not just a nonprofit organization. It's a group of people who are passionate about helping others both physically and spiritually. The organization has been a comforting presence in Mayfield ever since the storms abated. They've assisted in immediate clean-up and long-term rebuilding efforts.

Among the beneficiaries are Latasha and Dennis Hayes, a married couple who miraculously survived the tornado by taking shelter at a friend’s house. For them and many others, these new homes are not just structures but embodiments of hope and fresh starts.

More Than Just Homes
In addition to New Hope Acres, Samaritan's Purse has made their mark in various other ways around the greater Mayfield area. They've constructed 14 additional homes and are working on seven more. The organization has also provided furniture for 100 families who lost their possessions in the tornado. Moreover, they installed 174 tornado shelters in the region, focusing on both immediate needs and future safety.

Franklin Graham said, "I thank God that Samaritan’s Purse was able to respond immediately with thousands of volunteers and that we’re now able to complete these new homes to help families get back on their feet."

Reflection
In times of disaster, the biblical principle of helping those in need takes center stage. The Bible teaches us the virtue of charity and compassion, exemplified through acts like those of Samaritan's Purse. The name itself—Samaritan's Purse—is inspired by the Parable of the Good Samaritan, found in Luke 10:25-37. The Good Samaritan didn't just feel sorry for the man left beaten on the road; he took action. He dressed his wounds, brought him to an inn, and took care of him.

Scripture clearly calls us to help those who are suffering. Matthew 25:35-40 states, "For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in… Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me."

So, as the residents of New Hope Acres begin to fill their homes with new memories, let’s be reminded of the Christian duty to love and care for our neighbors. Whether it's through giving your time, resources, or prayers, every little bit counts. Because, in the end, aren't we all just trying to build a home—not just for ourselves, but for the spirit of humanity?

NASA Astronaut Returns to Earth After Record-Setting Year in Space

Frank Rubio, a NASA astronaut, has become a modern-day Odysseus, albeit one who traded the tumultuous seas for the uncharted waters of outer space. After 371 days aboard the International Space Station, Rubio has finally returned to Earth. And like the ancient Greek hero, Rubio too was unexpectedly detained, in his case, an extra six months due to a micrometeorite puncturing his Russian-made return ship.

An Unplanned Odyssey
Having originally been slated to return to Earth in March, Rubio faced the unique challenge of being separated from his family and the Earth he calls home for a longer period than anticipated. "Had I known that I would have had to miss those very important events," Rubio said, referring to milestones such as sending his son off to college, "I just would have had to say, ‘Thank you but no thank you.’”

Breaking Records and Glass Ceilings
Rubio's space odyssey didn't just mark a personal journey; it set records. The 47-year-old astronaut broke the previous record of 355 days for the longest spaceflight by an American. These aren't just statistics in a NASA database; they are significant milestones that have a direct impact on humanity’s quest to understand the universe.

A Hero’s Welcome
Rubio’s re-entry to Earth took place in central Kazakhstan, arriving at 7:17 a.m. Eastern time. Alongside two cosmonauts from Roscosmos, the Russian Federal Space Agency, Rubio was flown to eastern Kazakhstan and will be subsequently flown back to Houston, home of the NASA Johnson Space Center.

Not Just Stardust and Dreams
But let’s talk about the unsung heroes—Rubio's family. They've had to come to terms with his prolonged absence and the inherent risks involved in space travel. According to Rubio, his body will take a few months to readjust to Earth's gravity. His first few hours back will be spent "making close friends with some medicine and some bags."

Beyond the Stratosphere, Into Our Hearts
NASA Administrator Bill Nelson heralded Rubio’s time in space as "a major contribution to our understanding of long-duration space missions." Among Rubio’s contributions were studies focused on heart health and the potential for growing food in space—two crucial elements for humanity's future interstellar ambitions.

The Hum of Space Machines vs. The Silence of One’s Backyard
Rubio said he looks forward to enjoying the tranquility of his backyard, a far cry from the incessant hum of machines he'd grown accustomed to on the International Space Station. "Personally, it was an incredible challenge," he said. “Professionally, it was incredibly rewarding.”

Reflection
Hearing about Rubio’s family, and how excited he is to return to them, reminds us that there are things even more important than achievements. Even after accomplishing something as mind-blowing and important as space exploration, Rubio would have said no to it all if it means he got to see his son go to college. This reminds us that there are no accomplishments, accolades, or milestones we can hit that will ever replace love, family, and relationships. Let this story be a humble reminder to all of us that we ought never to sacrifice our families at the altars of success.

“For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?” (Matthew 16:26)

Thank you for joining us today on PRAY NEWS. It is our aim to be informed and transformed. We pray today you will proceed with hope, love, and determination to be a force for good.