Last night, standing outside, we watched Artemis II climb from Kennedy Space Center into the heavens as it carries its crew to the moon. On the plaque left by Armstrong and Aldrin on the moon in 1969 were some famous words which the commander of Artemis echoed prior to launch – “for all mankind.” My first memory was from 57 years ago, laying before the TV with my grandpa, watching Apollo 8 land on the moon in man’s first trip. As I watch this new step, I praise God.
In historical, inspiring moments such as these, we lift our eyes to the heavens and dream to escape these surly bonds. We raise our eyes, not as individuals but as a united mankind.
These words are so appropriate this week as we make our final journey not to the moon but to the cross with Jesus. Today as we gaze towards the moon, Jesus looks from His journey to Calvary ringing out these same words, “for all mankind.”
Every moment leading through this passion week echoes the merciful love of God “for all mankind.” Jesus’ trial, passion, Via Dolorosa, crucifixion, death and resurrection was done for a singular reason – “for all mankind.”
As Jesus gazes out from the cross, His eyes falling upon you, reflect and remember that everything He is doing is ‘for all mankind.”
As we move forward this week, let us courageously raise our eyes to Calvary and to Heaven, knowing that ‘for all mankind’ this is transpiring. ‘For all mankind” Jesus is shedding His Precious Blood and life.
