Science was never one of my better subjects in school. I think even as a kid I had this sense that it was contrary to what I was into – the liberal arts. I felt as a “tween” that I was led to music and/or being a pastor as my life ambitions. I misappropriated scientists as being anti-faith, even atheistic. I had a concern that science would erode the notion of believing in a God that we cannot see or empirically prove.

It took me a while, but it became abundantly clear that faith and science could be on the same team. Our puny minds tend to undercut the complete and perfect wisdom of God. We limit our own belief. In Proverbs 19:2 we are warned against this kind of thinking: “It is not good to have zeal without knowledge.” Copernicus was the first to “break the fourth wall” that separated science from faith. In modern times, we have put our faith in medical science. Can I say “vaccines” without leading to a political firestorm? We have heard it, and I believe that we can and should trust the science. It is a gift from God. We can have a richer, more joyous faith if we let go of the notion of vs., either/or.

Our present-day knowledge can help understand the Bible better in terms of human social behavior. We can embrace an all-encompassing faith that does not judge homosexuality, mixed ethnicity, or any of the other barriers that used to divide us. We can celebrate scientific discoveries. We can welcome and love all who share Abrahamic faith – you know, those other “non-Christians”. God does not despise an open, enlightened mind. He asks us to consider the amazing wonder of creation, evolution, “Big Bang”, and all disciplines that lift up beauty, purity, and unconditional love.

Pastor Art