Outer Space & The Final Frontier

So scientists discovered a massive ring around Saturn recently. Made up of dust particles invisible to the naked eye, the ring is so large it would take '1 billion earths to fill it'. That's big. The significance of the discovery varies depending on who you ask. Some scientists are excited - sick uninsured people  or the homeless couldn't care less or may not even even know.

Still, everything has its place and indeed much of the effort to study space has led to inventions and developments that help us in day to day life on Earth. Like fireproof materials or satellite communication among other things. However, a debate around the importance of this discovery has begun, what with the many problems we face on terra firma like war, economic collapse, natural disasters and nuclear proliferation to name a few.

While there is no doubt that many answers to a better life on earth lie somewhere out beyond the blue, the answers derived thereof can solve only so much. They may help us to be healthier, greener, more efficient users of energy and make earth a better place to live - and that will surely have a positive sociological effect. One is heavily influenced by ones environment after all.

But the final frontier that is far from conquered is not the vastness of space, but the depth (or shallowness) of the human heart. It is from this mysterious place that the world of humanity comes into being, and from this place that our most serious problems and most powerful solutions arise. We may find an answer to famine and malnutrition, but will that cure selfishness? We may find the solution to clean and green energy - but will that rid the world of greed? Indeed, vices such as selfishness and greed are often the root causes of issues like deforestation, pollution, war and racial prejudice, a painful marriage or a lonely soul .

We must and should strive to build a better world around us, but it is in vain if we aren't building a better world in us. Science may make us healthier and smarter, but it doesn't have the power to make us kinder, happier, more peace loving or forgiving. We know that people can shine their brightest in the midst of poverty and hunger. And can plumb the depths of depravity in comfort and plenty. What would we be if we strove to perfect our hearts along with our minds?

Once, having been asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, Jesus replied, "The kingdom of God does not come with your careful observation, nor will people say, 'Here it is,' or 'There it is,' because the kingdom of God is within you."

Who's Who? The Voice of God or Man Pt 2

Sorting out where messages come from - God or Man - can be hard. Made harder still when you add anger, resentment, pride or bitterness.

Having a great talk with a thoughtful and spiritual friend of mine made a difference, not just because he gave me helpful advice but pointed me to God rather than himself or other men. He reminded me that where there is man, there will be disagreement and divergence and yes, sometimes sin.

In truth when we set our hearts to find answers we can learn from a rock, a fool or even a wise friend. Good students can make almost anyone look like a wise teacher. We can learn what not to do from a fool. But wise teachers and good students make for a happy lesson - a happy life.

Sometimes we stop at the question, not expecting or perhaps wanting, an answer - being angry or distracted is enough. When we are sifting through the doctrines, voices and opinions it's so easy to forget what - or who - this hulabaloo is all about.

I realize that when God isn't my focus I can begin to resent men for their intrusion, perspective or unsolicited advice. But even if they aren't being sincere or are just pushy or legalistic, if my goal is God I won't add to the confusion. I might not be able to solve it - but I can walk away without joining it.