Faith and Science

I realize that there are probably countless articles and presentations out there on the relationship between Faith and Science. But this post isn't "researched" or anything--it's just my own thoughts and reflections.

I had originally planned to title this post "Faith vs. Science"--as if they are opposing forces. But the more I think about it, the more I realize that I'm not on one side or the other. I believe that the two can be complimentary rather than competitive. And come to think of it, I actually know very little about either. But Jesus said, "I assure you, if you had faith as small as a mustard seed you could say to this mountain, 'move from here to there,' and it would move. Nothing would be impossible" (Matthew 20:21). So perhaps it's okay that I don't have a lot of knowledge on Faith. As for Science, I guess more knowledge would make it easier to understand "doctor talk".

I remember having a conversation with my brother about the Science behind medical interventions for IF. Instantly, he responded that if God blessed the scientists with the knowledge and the abilities to create procedures to intervene, he'd use them in a heartbeat. I realize that one could argue that God blessed individuals with scientific knowledge and some created bad and hurtful things as well...but I do get what he's saying.

But another part of me gravitates to Exodus 14:14: "The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still". What a promise! And what a test of Faith when there are so many distractions out there!

In thinking about Faith, I feel like I've come to the conclusion that I faithfully believe 100% that God has something in store for my life, and that He will provide for me. But after three miscarriages, I feel like I can't say with that much certainty that His plan will include carrying a baby to full term. That's what I want more than anything, but maybe that's not what He wants for me. But if what I want doesn't match up with with He wants, I trust that His perfect plan will emerge, and it's up to me to embrace it.

I guess it comes down to a combination of both Faith and Science. I would be silly to refuse the Science behind the bloodwork tests if they could help give us some answers. But when Science fails, I need my Faith more than ever. If I--according to Science--take vitamins to nourish me physically; shouldn't I also--according to Faith--spend time with Christ to nourish me spiritually?

This reminds me of my own grandmother, who was given a 5% chance to live when she was diagnosed with a weird strand of cancer 20-some-odd years ago. Of course, she went through the radiation and chemotherapy that Science recommended. But that wasn't enough of a care plan for her. My grandmother is a prayer warrior, as are many around her. When the doctors--with all of their Science--proclaimed her free and clear of the disease, they attributed it to the power of prayer and Faith.

I guess it comes down to this (at least in my mind). Science may or may not help me carry a child to full term. But my Faith will undoubtably bring me closer to my Lord; and by Faith, I will undoubtably one day see my children in Heaven.

As for blessings, reflecting on this topic has reminded me just how much I love my grandmother. She's an amazing woman who cares so deeply for others around. When I was in college, she used to send me cookies...and a check for $15 to buy the milk to go with them. And she makes the best cookies ever! I pray that I have the chance to see her with her great-grandchild, and I pray that I get the chance to be an amazing grandmother someday as well.