New Sights and Sounds

The “Black Hole” is another mysterious term used by scientists that conjures up vague anxieties in me. But not me alone— a woman interviewed on NPR after the first JW Space Telescope pictures said she was afraid that she would be suddenly swallowed up by a Black Hole. Reverting to childhood fears, we wonder if these gaping holes have “monsters” waiting to suck us into oblivion! 

Scientists’ earlier explanations of Black Holes have been challenged by JWST’s new revelations. Sounds emanating from a Black Hole have confounded scientists since these holes are supposed to be vast soundless vacuums! The frequency of the sounds are outside the decibels that the human ear can detect— but they exist! NASA is reported as saying, “a black hole sounds like billions of souls wailing in anguish from the depths of hell.” In response a viewer said, “Neat!” 

Three thoughts come to mind. First: as humans, in a non-religious way, we seem to believe there is a place called “hell”— a place where souls go to be punished. This is a vague association with the teachings of the Bible. However, like everything that we dabble in without careful study, it is filled with error. The Bible states that hell is for the devil and those who choose a life of evil over good. However, this place of choice is not now but later. Check my facts!

Second thought: our attraction to gruesome gore. Is it really “neat” to listen to souls being tortured eternally in some black hole? I wouldn’t be surprised to see this featured in an upcoming horror movie. The problem is that gore and depravity when entertained, change the fabric of our being from the mind out— “By beholding we are changed”— We become callous, unfeeling, uncaring people who lose the joy of simple beauty and soft caring love for each other. 

Lastly, is it possible that with the opening of these new revelations of God’s creation we could accept that there are worlds that we do not know, and truths that we have yet to explore? Could these glimpses into the vast unknown give substance to Jesus’ promise that there is another world waiting for us if we will accept Him and the way of life He offers? 

“. . I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.”John14: 2,3.

I’m no scientist, but I believe there is a world of sights and sounds awaiting those who would trust and believe God’s promise.