400th Anniversary of the Telescope

Galileo's telescope helped the astronomer to learn more about our solar system. This is a reconstruction of the telescope. Photograph: Jim Sugar/Corbis

The introduction of Galileo's telescope is celebrating it's 400th anniversary today. For those of us needing a history lesson, including me, Galileo is the Italian astronomer and philosopher who is credited with discoveries about our solar system that would bring him scientific immortality and a whole lot of trouble.

This telescope and the more powerful one he would subsequently produce led to groundbreaking discoveries. The moon was not, as long believed, completely smooth. Another planet, Jupiter, also had moons. Venus showed a range of moon-like phases which could not happen if both it and the sun orbited the Earth.

Galileo's discoveries were, perhaps predictably, not welcomed. He would spend the final decade of his live under house arrest. He was willing to go to jail for spreading the news of his discoveries.

Discovering the love of Jesus and spreading the truth of His word can, in some countries, land you in jail. Having a different point of view and voicing it is rarely an easy task. Yet that is what we are called to do.

Galileo boldly told of his discoveries, whatever the cost. I challenge you today, This day, to boldly share God's impact on your life. It can be as simple as responding to a question of how your day is going or how you're doing. I will be sharing how my strength is being renewed by waiting on the Lord for the house He has for us.

Peace and Joy,
Susan

Psalm 119:165 (NKJV) Great peace have those who love Your law, And nothing causes them to stumble.