There are some scientists, among them astronomers who've I've heard being interviewed on podcasts who assert that planet Earth, our beautiful, diverse planet, is not that special. They claim (and these are very smart people) that in our enormous Universe, even our own galaxy, there might be thousands of planets like Earth that can support life (some form of it). I understand that our sun is one of two billions stars in the Milky Way galaxy alone, not to mention the billions of others in the Universe. But we do have the perfect conditions here, as is quite obvious. We, of course, have liquid water, perfect amount of the right gas in our atmosphere to support life (primarily nitrogen and oxygen). The atmosphere protects us from harmful radiation and burns up most of the meteoroids. The temperature is hospitable for life. Earth is sometimes referred to as the Goldilocks planet, meaning its position in the Solar System and movement makes it not too hot and not too cold, just right!
And yet, you have these esteemed scientists saying, "It's not that special." Well, that just drives me crazy, when I hear that. I think it is pretty special, I think the beauty, diversity and complexity of life on Earth is amazing, extremely unique. I can look at a wildflower and be amazed at its uniqueness and beauty.
Is there life on another hospitable planet, somewhere else in the Universe? Perhaps.....it is possible. Statistically scientists believe it has to be, even if its some form of microscopic life. Some people even believe that extraterrestrial life will be discovered in the coming years, as technology keeps advancing.
But even so, I would still believe that Earth is a magnificent, special creation and one that was perfected to the last atom, by a good, super intelligent and generous God. Intelligent design is everywhere, if you look with the eyes of faith.
Nancy
