Scientists have recently designed new space telescopes which enable them to see things such as black hole formations. Older space telescopes had limited capabilities, and many did not have the focusing capabilities to study events. So, the scientists turned to an unconventional source for inspiration in creating this improved technology. Let’s see the inspiration for the design of these new telescopes.
Play the following video for your students [1:47]: The space telescopes inspired by lobsters – BBC World Service
- If you were to design a new piece of technology, what would you create it to do? (Accept all reasonable answers. Someone might design a machine to do mundane or time-consuming tasks to free them up for other things. Others might design something to help others, perhaps in the fields of therapy or disaster assistance.)
It is easy to see the purpose behind most inventions. Usually they make easier something that was difficult or make possible something that wasn’t before. But what about God’s most complex creation—people? Maybe you’ve wondered what we’re all here for. Or you’ve worried about what you are supposed to do with your life. That’s normal! On the other hand, maybe you are someone with a strong sense of purpose.
- Does anyone feel that you were created for a specific purpose? Born to do something in particular? Tell about that. (Accept all reasonable answers. Some students may have a strong sense of purpose, and others not. Perhaps they’ll be the first in their family to accomplish something, are pursuing greatness in their sport or future career, are motivated to give back to their community, or to support others who have gone through the same hardship they have experienced. Be prepared to share yourself if students hesitate to respond.)
Unlike complex telescopes, humans can contemplate their purpose, and we have the free will to choose our words and actions and how we live in this world. By design, every person is unique and may uniquely impact their community or world for good. Today we’ll look at the biblical example of one man who was born with a very special and specific call on his life, and we’ll consider what plans God may have for us as well.