I’ve been editing a book about Physics recently. Generally, it’s fascinating stuff, but I’ve encountered one recurring problem. Though I’ve understood the words – well, most of them, anyway – the bulk of the equations within the manuscript have left me thoroughly bamboozled, even when their meaning is explained by the author. The characters and symbols used, let alone what these denote, seem altogether arcane. We can feel the same, sometimes, when it comes to understanding life and the things of God. So much that we strive to understand just doesn’t seem to make sense, to the point that we end up feeling troubled and confused. That’s what the following reflective prayer, taken from my book Calling Mars, explores: what we might term the mysteries of faith.
The scientific equation
To the scientists it was a profound equation,
unlocking the mysteries of the universe
and suggesting new areas of research,
but most just stared at it blankly,
unable to comprehend its meaning
or grasp its significance.
So much in life, Lord, is hard to fathom,
leaving me troubled and confused,
unable to reconcile it with your love.
I struggle to take in
the mysterious ways in which you work
and the sheer breadth of your purpose,
my faith foundering as a result.
Teach me to celebrate what I can make sense of,
and to trust you in what I can’t.
Amen.
I loved the prayer, it is very relevant. Thank you.
John
Thank you so much John; that means a lot to me. It’s always so good to hear from readers, especially when they’ve found something useful. Every good wish