The unseen that holds everything together
This week the Royal Society Summer Science Exhibition features an exhibit exploring dark matter and dark energy – two of the greatest mysteries in modern cosmology. Until just a few decades ago, scientists believed the universe consisted entirely of the ordinary matter we can see: stars, planets, galaxies and ourselves. Today, it is estimated that this visible matter makes up only 5% of the universe. The rest appears to consist of invisible dark matter and the even more mysterious dark energy. Though unseen, their existence is inferred from their effects, indicating that reality is far greater than what our eyes can perceive.
Far from troubling Christians, such discoveries should deepen our wonder at God’s creation. Each scientific advance reveals a universe more intricate and awe-inspiring than we imagined. As Paul writes, ‘God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made’ (Romans 1:20, NIVUK). While God cannot be compared to dark matter or dark energy, both remind us that unseen realities can be known through their effects.
While science helps us understand how the universe works, theology answers the deeper questions of who created it and why. Paul tells us that all things were created by, and for, Jesus Christ and are held together in him. (Colossians 1:16-17). The greatest mystery of the universe is not hidden matter or unseen energy, but ‘Christ in you, the hope of glory’ (vv. 26-27).
As we marvel at the vastness and complexity of creation, may we grow in gratitude and worship of the One through whom all things were made, in whom all things hold together, and who incredibly lives in us.
In Christian love,
Barry Robinson
About the Writer:
Barry Robinson is the Deputy National Ministry Leader for GCI in the UK and Ireland.