September 12, 2023
| Albert Einstein said, “Science without religion is lame; religion without science is blind.” Scientific ideas and theological concepts are often woven together in beautiful ways. Not only are science and theology compatible, often they are complimentary. Some of the most cutting edge science has profound theological implications. And this is the foundation of our upcoming worship series, “She Blinded Me With Science.” Now, a few of you will recognize the reference of the title of this series, but for those who don’t, it is the title of a very silly 1982 pop song. The specific content of the song has very little … well actually … it has nothing at all to do with the worship series! I am a child of the 80s, and I find that song very catchy – these are the only reasons I chose this phrase for the title. Please don’t overthink it! The relationship between science and religion is the subject of an ongoing and age-old dialogue. Science is an inherently progressive, self-correcting process. New discoveries regularly challenge previously held ideas, and are incorporated into new ways of thinking and being in the world. The mysteries of the world around us unfold as scientists open themselves up to new possibilities. Religion professes faith in ancient doctrine and draws from centuries-old sacred texts for revelation. There is a timelessness to the divine that is beyond our understanding. And yet God is continually revealing the divine self in a myriad of ways. God’s ongoing revelation challenges previously held ideas, and draw us into deeper understanding of and love for the world around us. And so, over the next three weeks, we will focus on three specific scientific “hot topics” and think about the theological implications of each. This week, we will talk about the “Big Bang Theory” as it connects with the theology of creation. Then we will get really small, and think about quantum mechanics and the so-called “God Particle.” And we will wrap up with a focus on artificial intelligence, and consider what it means to be humanity, created in the image of God. It is going to be really fun! I can’t wait to dig into these topics with you, and consider how science and religion are woven together in so many ways. I’ll see y’all in church! |
