truth v. Truth

The goal of any scientist is to discover something that was once unknown. Research is the quest to understand nature a bit more than we had before, to find a new tidbit of truth that was once only a question. 

I believe that science does provide truth, but it does not provide the ultimate Truth. To quote Francis S. Collins on his experience of scientific discovery, 

“Having perceived a glimmer of scientific truth, I find at once both a sense of satisfaction and a longing to understand some even greater Truth. In such a moment, science becomes more than a process of discovery. It transports the scientist into an experience that defies a completely naturalistic explanation” 

This captures the universal desire that I believe everyone experiences - a desire for more than just the material of this world. A sense that there is something more, something above, something greater. This existential yearning is woven into the human psyche.  

I find that there is a constant, though sometimes unstated, argument between science and religion. There seems to be a misunderstanding that only one, science or religion, can be truth. But that is not the case. There is a distinction between truth and Truth.

Science provides a naturalistic truth. The truth of science comes from observable, testable and verifiable information. It strives to find the truth within the swarm of possible hypotheses to explain a certain phenomenon. These truths can then be applied in new ways to develop new technology, medicine, or theories. From these truths, our society has been propelled. From these truths, we learn about our environment. Ultimately, science’s quest is for truth - natural truth.

Religion, on the other hand, provides a supernatural Truth. When naturalistic explanations cease to satisfy, religion provides. In John 14:16 Jesus claims “I am the way the Truth and the life. No one comes to the father except through me.” Religion provides a greater purpose for this world - salvation, redemption, hope, love. Jesus, being beyond the natural realm, is the only provider of this kind of Truth. From these Truths we develop morality, purpose and our reason for existence. From these truths, we learn about our souls. Religion is the pursuit of truth beyond this world. 

Therefore, there is no reason that both science and religion cannot be purveyors of truth. I sometimes feel there is a distrust of science by the religious community, and those feelings are often returned by science unto religion. Both sides feel they are the only providers of truth. There does not need to be this “king of the hill” conflict. Science and religion are working towards different truths, and therefore cannot be compared. This conflict is found in no greater controversy than Evolutionary Theory… but we’ll get into that later. :) 

As Collins says in his quote, I believe that scientific truth can be a vessel into a religious Truth. Understanding the complexities of this world beckon for a greater presence. The intricacies of this universe are too dynamic to be purposeless. As I study science, I cannot help but worship its creator, and thank him for giving me the capacity to understand it all. I imagine God watching us with a smirk on his face as we tire endlessly to understand that which he created so effortlessly. I hope that one day, I will be able to claim a discovery - and one that propels his kingdom forward. 

The Language of God: An Introduction

I’ve been working my way through Francis S. Collins book The Language of God: A Scientist Presents Evidence for Belief. About to embark into graduate school, I thought it would be a good read. So far, that has proven true. So, I thought I might blog through some of my thoughts. This will hopefully be both a way to be entertaining and thought-provoking to others as well as a form of processing what I’m reading and developing my own ideas and beliefs. 

A brief background to the book so you’re not completely lost: Francis S. Collins was the director of the Human Genome Project and an atheist-turned-Christian. He came to faith through his own investigation and questioning. The book is his thoughts on his experience, faith and beliefs as a well-established and respected scientist who also believes in God. 

Part One of his book explores “The Chasm Between Science and Faith.” He narrates his investigation into Christianity that ultimately lead him to find faith. He tackles the biggest dilemmas and questions many seekers fight when they begin to seek God - especially as a scientist. I don’t want to bore you with a summary of them...I want to get some of my own thoughts out here.

In his introduction, he says something which sums up what I feel as a devoted Christian and scientist. He says,

“God’s domain is in the spiritual world, a realm not possible to explore with the tools and language of science. It must be examined with the heart, the mind and the soul- and the mind must find a way to embrace both realms”

God exists beyond and above science. He is greater than our test tubes and pipettes. He speaks to the soul and moves in the heart. Just look at the scriptures - the delight, joy and truth found the Bible could never compare to the facts outlined in a textbook. His realm is his own. 

Yet, this is his Kingdom and his creation. I can find joy in reading a science book similar to the joy in reading the scriptures - both are revealing his character and power. As an investigator of nature, I cannot help but see God’s magnificence in his creation. His provision is evident in the mechanisms, systems and relationships that sustain nature.

To think science can be used to disprove God is a fallacy. For God and science do not exist in the same realm. Nor can science be used to prove God. Can there be traces of God’s goodness within creation? Yes. Can science be used to explore these bits of evidence? Yes. Can science be used to ultimately prove God? No. But isn’t that where faith comes in? We are meant to embrace both the supernatural and the natural, but the way we do so is different for both.

I believe that God can move in the heart in a way no amount of natural facts ever could. I believe that God has given us minds to explore, investigate and understand his world and therefore those that are gifted to do so, must. 

Therefore, I am aware that God has gifted me to enjoy and thrive in science. I hope to use the skills he has given me to understand his creation and, in doing so, work to bring his Kingdom to earth. 

A Christian Ecological Movement

I was never aware of the biblical call to care for the environment. I knew that we were given "dominion" over creation, and that was always taught to me to mean we were to be responsible guardians. While that is essentially true, I was not aware how deeply the call for ecological responsibility resides within scripture. It is an intensely woven theme throughout scripture and one that has caught my attention. I try to live my life based upon the truths that are laid out in the Bible, but have not been aware of this particular call until now. It has been another, very convicting, development in my faith. Not only is it a moral obligation to care for the environment because it affects the quality of life for all of humanity, but ecological responsibility is also a God-given command for all his followers. If I am to hold scripture as my standard of truth, I must understand all the God calls me to do as his follower. Most Christians, I expect, are naive to these commands within scripture. If more Christians were aware of these truths, I think it could inspire a movement towards a more environmentally aware faith. Now, as I consider my actions, and the actions in my future, I attempt to align them with scripture. For example, when I think about living on my own next year, I realize that I will have to make decisions that reflect how I care for God’s earth. I will have full control over what food I buy, my methods of transportation, how I choose to live. After gaining a full understanding of how God calls us to live, I am excited to make those decisions in a way that reflects God’s will for his creation. I think it could be a major way to witness not only to anyone I may meet, but also to people I am close with, such as my family. It is not common to hear someone claim ecological responsibility in the name of Christ, but I believe it could make a serious impact in today’s society. 

Christians must begin to seriously question their actions towards the environment. I know that I have been personally convicted by my exposure to the ecological crisis and how my faith should coincide with the environment. Although always conscious about the environment, I was never motivated by faith to treat the earth well. It was always superficial. This has changed. I have become increasingly inspired by the truth and commands of scripture to care for the earth. I no longer see caring for the environment as merely human kindness towards the earth, but as a Christian responsibility. There needs to be a greater Christian movement towards widespread ecological responsibility. Humans, in general, do not like to take the blame for anything, so it makes sense that many people refuse to accept the cause and effect relationship between our actions and the current state of the Earth. If only we could overcome our greed, our overconsumption, need for power and our ignorant tyranny over creation and accept the problem and begin to rectify the situation. What better source of reconciliation than a group of people who follow a God who cares for the poor and cautions against greed, a God of justice, unity and harmony, a God who created all things and is supreme above all things? Christianity is perfectly positioned to begin a radical campaign for the environment. Its teachings provide remedies for our ecological crimes. Often times, environmentally aware living is associated with the “hippie” stereotype. How radical would it be if it could become synonymous with Christianity? The core beliefs of our faith are ripe to allow this kind of change, we only need to fight against the ignorance and misunderstandings that pervade the Christian faith in regards to the environment and begin to see creation in the same light as it’s Creator.

Are Christians to Blame?

Another reflection from Environmental theology (yes, this was an assignment. I hope it's good, I haven't gotten it back yet...). It's a little lengthy, sorry. Also, the books I mention are cited at the bottom of the page. The last three paragraphs, which I have bolded, are the one's I find to be most important. So if you're interested... maybe just skip down to those. 

This is Our Father’s World

Humanity is in the midst of an environmental crisis. While the crisis is universal, and logically must be due to the cumulative actions of the entire human population, direct attacks have been made against the Christian community as the cause of environmental degradation, disregard and disenfranchisement. The argument attempts to find validity in scripture, yet often relies on weak interpretation and incongruent behavior within Christianity. Most of their conclusions prove to be flawed and often point to fundamental weaknesses of all humankind, regardless of religious affiliation. The ecological complaint against Christianity is multi-fold but most advocates centralize their argument on anthropocentrism encouraged by the Christian faith. This human-centric belief is fed by an accused spiritual-material dualism and annihilisitic eschatological claims. Critics claim these aspects of Christianity are rooted in scripture. While the central arguments of Christian culpability are weak upon complete analysis, there are strings of true fault woven within Christian behaviors, past and present. Therefore, Christians must begin to analyze their actions towards the environment and how they align with core teachings of scripture.

According to critics, the anthropocentric tendencies of Christianity have caused complete devaluation of the environment. They claim Christianity holds the belief everything was created by God for the good of man. Everything created has a purpose, and that purpose it to be harnessed by man by any means. Christians, apparently, believe nature has no value outside of its benefit to humankind.  Therefore, Christians assume they have God-ordained authority to exploit the ecosystem. Often cited is Genesis 1:26 where humans are divinely granted “dominion” over all creation. This, however, is where the argument begins to find its weakness. If critics claim the Bible is directing Christians to be tyrants over God’s creation, they must ignore the rest of the Bible which clearly instructs harmony with nature. Even throughout the rest of Genesis, such as Genesis 2:7 which speaks of service to the earth, there are multiple examples which attest to the oneness of humans and creation. The Bible frequently teaches the requirements of human servitude towards the earth, as in Genesis 2:5. Steven Bouma-Prediger relates all these passages and declares humans to be “both responsible persons and earthy creatures” and therefore must exhibit both leadership and companionship with the earth (64).  Therefore, it is not a Christian tenet to believe humans are supreme, that role is reserved for God. 

This complaint can be linked to the drastic influence culture and human nature can have on the behavior of a religion, regardless of the beliefs outlined in their scriptures. It is the ethos of modern society which leads to a universal anthropocentrism of all humans. Society is largely focused on human progress, success and prestige. Christianity does not teach selfishness, instead it teaches selflessness. The selfish manifestation of Christianity is due to instinctive, albeit sinful,   human nature and the invading influence of secular culture. James A. Nash discusses this widespread human limitation claiming “the near universality of ecological problems suggests that the roots of the crisis are not in theological affirmations themselves, but rather in human character” and therefore should not be pinned on one particular religious group (Nash 89). Instead, all of humanity should analyze their selfishness in relation to how they treat the environment and they way they use, or abuse, its resources. Anthropocentrism, unfortunately, seems to be innate in human character and therefore society must carefully monitor their actions to insure they align with values such as sustainability, care, and respect for the environment. Christians, in particular, should be aware of the ecological manifestation of selfishness, which may otherwise go unnoticed against more blaring, traditional sins.

The elevation of humanity in the Christian faith, critics claim, is fueled by an encompassing dualism separating the material and the spiritual worlds. According to these analysts, Christianity places an emphasis on the spiritual realm, the individual soul and personal religion. Therefore, humankind has a reason to ignore the material creation while focusing on the spiritual priorities.  Apparently, in the Christian faith, God only cares about the salvation of the human soul and not about his creation, in which humanity dwells. Bouma-Prediger summarizes the claim that “Christianity fosters a care-less attitude toward matter and the body and thus is at fault for plundering the earth” due to the priority placed on spiritual salvation over the material world (60). According to the Biblical interpretation of these critics, this dualism is further supported by the eschatology prophesied in the holy scriptures. They infer the eschatology from the Bible consists of a complete destruction of the world in the processes of saving human souls. This prophecy, according to the critics, has fostered an attitude of disregard for the material aspects of this world. Since one day the world will be destroyed, it is a waste to care for creation today. Spiritual health should be prioritized above creation’s health. Christians, therefore, have no regard for nature since it will not be redeemed in end times. 

However, upon accurate analysis of the scriptures, this dualism and eschatological exhibition are not found. Instead, God is shown to care deeply for all members of his creation, not just the spirits of humans. Humanity itself is deeply rooted in creation and, therefore, there can be no separation between humans and creation. They are fundamentally one. God can show no favor for one over the other. The scriptures are also riddled with evidence of God’s care for the material creation. In Psalm 24, the psalmist sings “The earth is the Lord’s and all that is in it, the world, and those who live in it.” Clearly, this Psalm claims everything that is in the earth belongs to the Lord and therefore he must care for its whole. Those who live in the world, namely humans, are even listed secondary to the world itself. He will redeem the world in its entirety, not just human souls. Bouma-Prediger counters the annihilationist interpretation of redemption with the biblical claim that redemption will be a discovery of a new earth, a renewal of creation (69). In 1 Thessalonians 4:16 it shows God is going to descend upon the earth, not merely rescuing his people. He wishes to return to his creation. God will remain loyal to his original creation and does not want to see it destroyed. No artist would willingly burn their masterpiece after they completed it. Neither will God destroy his sole creation. He longs for it to flourish. Therefore, salvation will not entail a complete destruction, but instead redemption of the current creation. A correct interpretation of the Christian faith will find no separation between the spiritual and material, but instead a harmonious and inseparable relationship.

However, this is not to say these flawed beliefs are absent from the Christian Church. Clearly, there must be some behavioral evidence on which the critics base their assumptions. Often, Christians fall into the conclusion God cares more about the spiritual salvation and condition of our souls than for the material well-being of his creation. For example, most Christians place ministry-related jobs on a higher podium than secular careers. Even the adjectives “religious” and “secular” are evidence of Christian dualism, even though there is no scriptural basis for these segregations. Therefore, Christians must be aware of this dualism and prevent it from separating ourselves from God and from his creation. 

Although the accusations of Christian ecological critics often fall short of scriptural and theological truth, they are cause for a pause and reanalysis of Christian behavior towards the environment. In truth, they present a drastic need for repentance and reevaluation of the Christian response to the environment. Humans are members of God’s creation and therefore are called upon to be responsible and active participants in the care and advocacy of the environment. Nash admits the Christian negligence of ecological devastation when he admits “Christianity has done too little to discourage and too much to encourage the exploitation of nature” and suggests a widespread repentance from members of the Christian faith (74). This repentance is extremely warranted. 

Christianity’s ecological sins are two fold, as Nash explains. Christians have not been treating the earth with the respect and reverence it deserves. Being that the earth is God’s, this behavior is unacceptable and a direct act of rebellion and disregard of God’s will. Nature is the manifestation of God on earth and therefore should be cared for diligently. Our actions have been indistinguishable from the rest of humanity, even though our faith calls for stewardship of God’s world. Furthermore, though some Christians may have recognized their role in caring for the earth, they have not advocated for change. Even in the face of the environmental ruination that is facing society today, they have kept quiet about the responsibility required of Christians to maintain the earth. They have remained silent, quietly tending to their corner of the ecosystem while the rest is being subsequently destroyed by the inconsiderate actions of the remainder of humanity. Christians must realize their place as God’s caretakers and realign their actions to adequately reflect God’s passion and call to care for the earth. As the classic hymn sings, “This is my Father’s world. O let me ne’er forget that though the wrong seems oft so strong, God is the ruler yet.” Let us not forget our world belongs to our God, and although the damage is rampant and the groaning of creation grows louder, God is sovereign, and in him there is always hope for redemption. 

Bouma-Prediger, Steven. For the Beauty of the Earth: A Christian Vision for Creation Care. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 2001. Print.

Nash, James A. Loving Nature: Ecological Integrity and Christian Responsibility. Nashville: Abingdon, 1991. Print.

More than just "Saving the Trees."

        So... for my Environmental Theology class we have to write weekly journals. This class has been extremely eye-opening so far, therefore I thought I would share my thoughts with whomever was interested enough to read them. Here goes... 

    I realize my naivety in believing the environmental crisis primarily affected the ecosystem alone.  I thought our actions were only dangers to the animals, land, oceans and atmosphere. I knew the current environmental degradation would cause problems for our lives such as health issues, a decrease in land quality, and resource scarcity. However, I did not have a global perspective on the true spread of damage the environmental crisis could cause… and is currently causing. Particularly, I did not realize the effect global warming, deforestation, pollution, and the entire slew of environmental problems we have created, has on the poorest people on our planet.

            This was tremendously convicting for me not only as a Christian but also as a scientist determined to use her gifts to feed the world. Poverty is one of the global crises that tugs at my heart strings the most. I was always a supporter of environmental efforts because I wanted to save the planet. However, I was never fully aware that impact environment had on the lives of the poor. Growing up in a privileged society, it is easy to lose sight of the true desperation between the rich and poor in our world today. In For the Beauty of the Earth, Steven Bouma-Prediger called out my ignorance as he explained how “the most vulnerable people and countries will most likely suffer the worst, with the present disparity between the rich and the poor even more greatly exacerbated” (53).  Developing nations do not have access to the resources and technologies that we do and therefore will find it more difficult to adapt to a changing environment. They do not have the ability to find alternative resources when the natural ones eventually disappear, nor do they have access to modern advances which have allowed developed countries to adapt to current environmental conditions.  As the environmental crisis worsens, so will their situation.

            In Loving Nature, James A. Nash continued to enlighten me as he asked if environmental concerns were a moral issue. I am fully convinced environmental concerns are moral obligations. As a member of an affluent society, I must be aware of my actions and the impact they have on people around the globe. As a Christian, Jesus calls us to tend to the poor. The Bible enforces this calling 2,200 times and we cannot ignore this calling as his followers. If our careless harm against the world is making life more difficult for the poor, we must seriously reanalyze our behaviors and strive to correct them. If we are to live as Jesus did, we must look out for the poor and be aware of the indirect effects our actions may impose on them. Environmental awareness should focus on more than just "Saving the Trees" for human lives and well-being are also at stake.

Resume Builder

The calming sounds of rain, thunder and the Volkman fountain play through my open window accompanying my soft, folk music. It's soothing and delightful. It was in this time of rest this evening that I decided to read my Bible only to find even more peace within God's words.

Hebrews 13:21

May He equip you with all you need for doing his will.

May he produce in you through the power of Jesus Christ.

Filling out graduate school applications or attempting to create a resume has a tendency to make me feel completely inadequate. Knowing that my application will be read with exceptionally critical eyes alongside other applicants who are also trying to put their best foot forward, is the definition of terror. My confidence is continually downgraded with each "Achievement" Box unfilled, each resume component unfulfilled, each lackluster personal statement. 

Maybe I'm being overdramatic. However, I often get the feeling that my application will never be finished. It could always have more. I could always be better equipped.

That's not true. Though graduate committees may find flaws within my application, God doesn't. He's built my resume exactly how he wants it, exactly how it needs to be to fulfill his will. He has provided me with the experience and education I need. He has crafted me to who I need to be, beyond what can be written on a piece of paper or filled in an application box. 

I wish I could put that on my resume. Right under "Work Experience" it could say "Crafted by God, So I know I'm ready to work for him, so I'm ready to work for you!" 

I guess I also have to remember that he is equipping me to do his will, which may not necessarily be my will. Or the graduate committee's. I find this terrifying, yet comforting. Even though I don't know what my work may be, I know that I am completely prepared to do it, and I will be able to rely on God's strength when I still feel inadequate. 

A Facebook Status in Retrospect.

I remember an old Facebook status that I posted during finals last spring

“Katelyn Horgan can’t wait for a summer filled with science, cooking and golf”

Or something like that.

Let’s reflect on this, shall we?

Well, my summer was not filled with golf, unfortunately. The golf program at Judson was cut for next year due to budget. I’m super bummed that I no longer will be able to play under my dad as the coach. I was really looking forward to competing again. During May I practiced and played quite a bit and I realized how much I missed and enjoyed golf. I was pumped for my final golf season. But, since the program was cut and I had no one to play with I wasn’t able to get out to the course and didn’t feel the need to try to find a driving range (there aren’t that many nearby). Some mornings, as I’m walked into lab, I could smell the fresh cut grass, hear the birds and wanted nothing more than to be on the course with my dad. I’ve missed that a lot this summer.

Cooking- yes, my summer was filled with cooking.  I’ve delighted in cooking for myself, hardly ever making the same meal twice. There are several benefits to cooking dinner for yourself: (1) It doesn’t have to look as beautiful as all the images on Pinterest. (2) I can taste using the mixing spoon (3) I can add whatever ingredients I like, in whatever amount (4) If it turns out lower than my unreasonably high standards, there’s no harm. Yes, I’ve enjoyed cooking for myself all summer. 

I’ve missed cooking for family though. I love making full meals, big or small, for my family . It’s one of my favorite ways to show my love for them and to serve them. I love planning menus, finding recipes and working in the kitchen making something that I know others will enjoy.  Cooking for myself satisfies my hunger. Cooking for other satisfies my souls. 

Science: Yes, there has been lots of science. Hours and hours and hours of science. And it’s been great, for the most part. I’ve been introduced to the world of research beyond just working at my bench. There is so much more that I’ve learned than laboratory skills. I’ve gotten a taste of the perseverance needed to be a scientist, been introduced to the dynamic scientific community, and seen the scientific method at work. I’ve learned so much about how the world of science functions. It’s far more than just scientists working at their lab benches with beakers and pipettes. This summer has given me an entirely new perspective on the scientific world, and I’m still trying to figure out how I fit in.

In retrospect, my Facebook status should have looked more like this:

Katelyn Horgan is going to have a summer filled with heat, experiments and a whole lot of self-reflection.

It’s been hot. You all know that. I don’t like it. Let’s bring on autumn.

I’ve had my share of experiments in the lab and the kitchen but also of life in general. I tried out a new church, new environments, new interactions, new rhythms of life. I’ve been able to try out “life on my own” without the support of family, friends, or the structure of school. I began figuring out my priorities, values and views. Being thrust into a new situation always challenges your previous mindset. That definitely happened here, and it took some experimenting before I settled in. (Maybe I’m not articulating this well, but perhaps you understand)

That brings me to the “whole lot of self-reflection.” I wasn’t expected to be as challenged as I was while here. I was planning to come here and have all my plans and desires confirmed. Well, God doesn’t work like that, does He? No, instead I found myself constantly questioning what I’m supposed to do when I graduate. I had a plan- grad school, PhD, save the world. However, now I’m starting to question if I’m prepared for that right now or if I should experience more of the world before I enter into 6 years of school. If there is more to learn than just science. If God is calling me somewhere else, away from my comfortable plans that I’ve had for so long. I’ve stared at websites for Teach for America, Peace Corps Master’s programs, and numerous other links that led me no where. I’m still struggling, and part of me questions what part of this struggle is God and what part of it is just my fear. I don’t know, but I do know that God will lead me to where I’m supposed to be. I’ve accepted the fact that I’m in a 1/5 life crisis, I just have to sort it out and see where God leads me.  He’ll open a door, I just have to find it and walk through.

Oh, and MICHELLE AND EMILY ARE HERE!