Chapter 8: Chaos Is A Myth 6...

Psalm 111: 1-10

“Praise the LORD! I will praise the LORD with my whole heart, in the assembly of the upright and in the congregation. The Works of the LORD are great, studied by all who have pleasure in them. His Work is honorable and glorious, and His righteousness endures forever. He has made His wonderful Works to be remembered; The LORD is gracious and full of compassion. He has given food to those who fear Him; He will ever be mindful of His covenant. He has declared to His people the power of His Works, in giving them the heritage of the nations. The Works of His hands are verity and justice; all His precepts are sure. They stand fast forever and ever, and are done in truth and uprightness. He has sent redemption to His people; He has commanded His covenant forever: Holy and awesome is His Name. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; a good understanding have all those who do His commandments. His praise endures forever.”

“Memorable one?” Moose laughs a quiet, amused snort, a quick breath. “You’re already on your way to that. Come on then, Cbot. Let’s get inside.” The two step out of the way as the cab door hisses shut with a smooth schlicht and the yellow vehicle speeds off into the port. Moose gives a small nod, and together walk across the wide docking bay, steps clicking quietly on the metal floor. They head up a loading platform and into the cool, dimly lit, CS02 starship cargo bay. The familiar scent of recycled air, metal, and engine grease hits them both as the bay doors start to rumble close behind them.

As Moose steps over the threshold, the CS02 comes alive around him, an old friend waking from a nap. The cargo bay is packed with sturdy crates of books and Bibles, all neatly stacked and strapped down, ready for delivery. Tiny sensors imbedded in the crates quietly monitor the temperature, humidity, and organic activity in the crates. Then, a soft toned chime rings out over the ship’s coms- clean and welcoming. “Welcome back, Captain!” The ship’s core pipes up, bright and cheery, a sunrise voice.. “Coffee procured?”

Moose slides his pack off slight shoulders and unzips it carefully. He reaches in and pulls out a large bag of coffee grounds. Freedom Station Coffee brands the front of the bag. Moose flips it in the air, catches it in one hand and smiles. Qbot enters the cargo bay, chirps, and grabs the coffee. She looks Cbot over quickly before making her way into the ship’s commissary to make a pot.

“MCbot,” Moose says, his voice steady, warm. He motions for Cbot to step next to an analyzing terminal and begins to hook up the wires and sensors. Each one clicks and clamps with crisp, clean, precision. “We’re going to be setting a course to earth.” Moose give a small nod. “Take Artbot and Qbot for a moment and work the course out. I know it’s a distance.”

“Earth, that place is a mess,” comes MCbot’s reply. Moose raises an eyebrow. “Yes, Captain!” MCbot responds quickly, the words snapping over the coms.

“Welcome home, Cbot. You’re going to find this place a little different, most likely.” Moose wrinkles his nose as he considers the bot.

Proverbs 3: 1-10

“My son, do not forget my law, but let your heart keep my commands; for length of days and long life and peace they will add to you. Let not mercy and truth forsake you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart, and so find favor and high esteem in the sight of God and man. Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and depart from evil. It will be health to your flesh, and strength to your bones. Honor the LORD with your possessions, and with the first fruits of all your increase; so your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will overflow with new wine.”