Faith, Science, and the Wonder of the Universe

I have next to nothing to say about the four-minute video clip below…except that IT IS SO COOL!

Really.

It comes from Oprah Winfrey’s SuperSoul Sunday program and, whatever you may think of Oprah’s theology or spirituality or whatever, you’ve got to admit she’s got style. 🙂 And resources. And so it’s a wonderfully made short film that raises questions about the relationship between faith and science.

And here I’ll be frank: I’ve never quite understood those who see these two in stark opposition. And that includes combatants on both sides. Science is nothing to be afraid of, and faith is not limited or defined by science. It has always seemed to me, and of course I’m borrowing from countless more moderate voices, faith and science occupy themselves with two distinct realms of knowledge and experience that, while they may intersect, are still not the same. The bottom question, it seems to me, is not whether science rules out the possibility of faith, but whether we can imagine that there is a dimension of our experience and reality that transcends – as well as imbues — the material world in which we live and breathe.

Okay, so that’s not exactly saying nothing about the video below, but you probably figured I couldn’t resist a little commentary. So perhaps you’ll allow one more thing: I’ve had the privilege of corresponding with Dr. Grace Wolf-Chase on and off again for the last year or so. And she is wonderful. Not only a brilliant astronomer, but also a person of faith…and a Lutheran! 🙂 I think that the analysis and testimony she offers is succinct, moving, and beautiful, and I’m grateful for the chance to share her insight and wisdom with you.

Note: If you are receiving this post by email, you may need to click the title at the top of the post to watch the video.