More than "One Small Step"

Over the past week or so we have heard repeated many times the words of Neil Armstrong, “One small step for man; one giant leap for mankind”.  Apart from being mildly irritated by its being oft repeated, I have found myself pondering on these words.

Perhaps what was in mind was that final step from the ladder.  That was indeed a small step for a man to take, though its global significance should not be underrated.  However, that small step was merely a moment in a journey that was anything but a “small step”. Three astronauts had left earth approximately four days and 12 hours before that “one small step”.  They had travelled more than 240,000 miles from the comfort of their homes. In both the lead up and the journey itself they would have also been on a mental and emotional journey. The phrase, “one small step” is an understatement.

Behind that one moment in history were years of education and training, and the development of personalities marked by the kind of courage that enables you to leave earth on a journey that carried enormous risks.  It is also good to remember that it was not only the journey that was significant. There was a scientific purpose, and projects to undertake once they had arrived. Perhaps we should also take a moment to reflect on the emotional cost to their loved ones who had let them go.

But all this focus celebrating a significant moment fifty years ago, also makes me think about that one giant leap for the Son of God who left heaven for earth around 2,000 years ago.  If not before, the final three years of his earthly life were marked by the awareness of what that mission was for. There was an unspeakable event behind the purpose for that journey: a price to be paid to obtain redemption for all mankind.  While I have been enthralled by the Apollo 11 story once again, the journey to bring me salvation has certainly eclipsed it.

Similar to the reaction of many to the words “The eagle has landed”, all heaven could not contain its wonder as a little baby boy took his first breath.  Some thirty three years later, it was “Mission accomplished”.

So for me lift off, the eagle has landed, one small step are words that have made me pause and wonder afresh at the love that drew up this greater plan, and the love and courage that carried it out despite the risks.

Barry Osborne - 21st July 2019