Wisdom Gathered from the Ages

Continental drift is a theory that maintains that large landmasses are slowly moving and have done so continually for ages. There was  a single landmass called Pangaea that split up tens of  millions of  years ago, and the resulting continents eventually drifted to their present locations.  Alfred Wegener (1880-1930) introduced the theory of continental drift in the early years of the 20th century after he closely looked at the contours of the different continents and saw how they could fit together like a jig saw puzzle. The theory in the early years was ridiculed, but 30 years after Wegner's death it has gained many adherents.

A professor in a college engineering department, writing in The Kyeongyang Magazine, wants us to reflect on how the theory, if true, might affect the way we see life. The theory of plate tectonics, which is accepted by all, explains that the continents move a few centimeters each year. This understanding gives added scientific probability to Wegner's theory of continental drift.

By considering the number of generations since the appearance of humanity about 2 million years ago, the professor estimates that there have been 30,000 generations of humans. In the eyes of the creator, all is alive and moving; in our eyes, it does seem that all is at a standstill, muses the professor. The creator can see a part of humanity as being very near-sighted and the primary reason for the mistreatment of nature and the world. We are part of nature; here for only a short time. Is this not the reason, he asks that Jesus come to be with us?   

A Christian who was poor went before the altar in his church and  began praying with great sincerity: "All powerful Creator, you see all of us as small in your eyes. To you, 100 years are like one second, and one million dollars is like one penny.  Please Lord, give me just one penny."  Shortly after he heard the words: "Yes, but just wait 1 second."

We know that God is not limited by time as we are. The professor wants us to see our earthly reality with the eyes of God from the  perspective of eternity. With humor the professor brings our attention to the movements imperceptible to us but none the less
happening continually. "Eyes do not see all that is."

He concludes with examples of being hurt by rebukes from others and being scarred, often making all kinds of resolutions to live the ideal, obedient and loving life, resolutions that turn out to be only empty words.  We forget our place  in the big cosmic picture. More effort, says the professor, should be directed in being patient, wise and humble.