Devotional Astronomy

Earth Science and Current Astronomical Events

Earth Science teachers are always on the lookout for unusual current events to pique student enthusiasm for their subject matter. In my past teaching experience current astronomical events supplied subject matter to reinforce and amplify classroom discussions and activities.

A Look at Common Astronomical Events

Before launching a more detailed discussion of devotional astronomical phenomena, let us review several mundane astronomical events. Our populace becomes excited about astronomical terminology describing events such as “super moons.” 

What is a Supermoon?

What is a “super moon?” About 2-5 times per year the full moon is classified a “super moon.” The full moons of October 7, November 5, and December 4, 2025 are also considered “super moons.” Full moons occur 12-13 times per year when the sun, earth, and moon are generally in line. At full moon the earth is positioned between the two other bodies. The orbit of the Moon is slightly elliptical—not a perfect circle. Sometimes the Moon is located at perigee, an orbital path which brings the Moon closest to the Earth. The closer Moon appears up to 14% larger and 30% brighter.

Planetary Conjunctions and Public Interest

The foregoing facts are somewhat esoteric. However, the events may generate fascination and admiration. Another phenomenon is the conjunction, or apparent close approach of planets or other celestial objects in our sky. In one recent conjunction two planets, Jupiter and Saturn, were so close they almost appeared to be one object. One may develop an intellectual exercise to determine the cause of unusual or attractive conjunctions. Two blog posts dealt with this unusual conjunction several years ago:

https://jasscience.blogspot.com/2020/12/star-of-wonder-2020.html

https://jasscience.blogspot.com/2020/12/signs-in-sky.html

Astronomy, Wonder, and Biblical Reflection

The 2020 conjunction generated considerable excitement. Was the Star of Bethlehem  described in Matthew 2:7-10 making a return visit? Although it is possible that the Creator of All Things could cause a planetary conjunction, it is more likely that planetary and lunar motions are merely random events which inspire fascination, wonder, and worship.

A Devotional Experience Through Observation

We cite one more past blog post where a science activity inspired a sense of wonder. In order to experience the sense of wonder, in 1997 I invited my astronomy students to arrive at school in morning darkness in order to observe two planets, Venus and Mercury, rising in the dark eastern skies only one or two minutes apart. Venus is a Solar System planet easily observed as a very bright object in our skies. It is relatively close to Planet Earth’s orbit and therefore, easy to observe. Tiny Planet Mercury is closer to the Sun and is often lost in the glare of the Sun. Most people have never observed Mercury. 

https://jasscience.blogspot.com/2008/10/moment-of-worship.html

Scientific Truths and Devotional Insight

Humanity in the 21st century may ignore inspiring devotional scripture passages in favor of secular scientific interpretations. The emphasis in the current post is more devotional and less scientific. However, scientific truths can inspire a devotional experience for Christians.

Scripture and Worship Through Creation

We close with two famous scripture passages which trigger devotional experiences.

“There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars; for star differs from star in glory” (I Cor. 15:41 ESV). Authors of Scripture would assign a devotional dimension to similar passages. Another example is found in Psalm 121. “I will lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.” (Psalm 121:1-2 ESV)