Language of God

Dr. Jay Butler is an infectious disease physician, epidemiologist, and former Deputy Director for Infectious Diseases at the CDC. We had the joy of hosting Dr Butler in the BioLogos offices recently where we shared his perspective on public health as a ministry, discussing his career journey from the CDC to working with Alaska Native communities. He also delves into the history of measles, its impact, and the groundbreaking development of the MMR vaccine, which has saved millions of lives globally. The conversation explores the challenges of public trust in medical research and institutions, especially concerning vaccines, and how science and faith can come together to pursue truth and improve public health outcomes. Theme song and credits music by Breakmaster Cylinder. Other music in this episode by Dark Blue Studio courtesy of Shutterstock, Inc.  Additional Resources: BioLogos Open Letter to People of Faith about Science BioLogos Common Question - Should Christians Get Vaccinated?

Explore the intriguing journey of early humans as they develop symbolic thought and spiritual awareness. Delve into the origins of cave art and the transition from shamanistic traditions to organized religion. Discover the architectural wonders of Neolithic sites like Orkney’s chambered cairn and reflect on ancient beliefs about the afterlife. The podcast highlights how spirituality shaped early communities through rituals, creativity, and awe. Join this fascinating exploration of humanity's quest for understanding the divine.

Join Daryl Roll, an assistant professor of archaeology at Calvin University, as he explores the evolution of our ancient ancestors. Dive into the intriguing journey from bipedalism to the development of complex social behaviors. Discover how Neanderthals and Homo sapiens intertwined and the significant archaeological findings that shed light on their lives. Roll delves into the connections between human cooperation, spirituality, and even the mysteries surrounding Neanderthals, offering a fascinating look at our shared past.

Francis Collins, founder of BioLogos, and Kristine Torjesen, the new President and CEO, are deeply invested in the power of science to do good in the world. Yet, they observe with concern a growing distrust in science within our technologically advanced society. In this conversation, they share profound personal stories of how scientific breakthroughs have brought healing and hope, illustrating how science, when guided by wisdom and compassion, can be a powerful force for human flourishing. They discuss BioLogos's new "Science is Good" initiative, exploring how biblical virtues from Matthew 25 can inform and inspire a gracious and compassionate pursuit of scientific knowledge, ultimately showing the beautiful compatibility of faith and science. Read our Open Letter to People of Faith about Science

Mónica Guzmán, a journalist and Senior Fellow for Public Practice at Braver Angels, shares her insights on the power of curiosity in bridging divides. She emphasizes the importance of understanding differing viewpoints instead of just seeking to change beliefs. Guzmán discusses her EPACT framework for initiating sensitive conversations, and how authentic dialogue can combat political polarization. Through personal anecdotes, she illustrates how curiosity can transform perspectives and foster genuine connections, even on contentious topics. Tune in to discover the art of fearlessly curious conversations!

Alan Lightman is a theoretical physicist and has always seen the world as a place governed by unbreakable laws. But those laws never did a very good job explaining some of the most important moments of his life, moments when he felt a profound connection to the world. A journey to understand some of those transcendent moments has opened his appreciation to multiple ways of knowing and being in the world.  In this conversation he tells some of the stories of the moments that led him on this journey, and discusses the nature of consciousness, the moral responsibility of computers, and models a posture of curiosity and graciousness in conversation. Theme song and credits music by Breakmaster Cylinder. Other music in this episode by Youth Faire and Magnetize Music, courtesy of Shutterstock, Inc.

How do science-minded Christians make sense of the resurrection? This Easter season, Jim Stump tackles that question. After hearing the Gospel accounts read by listeners and staff, he examines some of the differences in the Biblical accounts and considers how we might understand the story as a whole. Then he brings his expertise in the philosophy of science to explore how we can think of resurrection in light of scientific theories that seem to show that when people die, they stay that way.  Thanks to our readers, Micah, Luke, Kimanzi and Scott! The Theme song and credits music by Breakmaster Cylinder.

Life has a way of persisting through ecological disturbance in small protected places and then radiating outward. In Hawaii, those places are called “kipukas.” But biological life is not the only thing that can grow and thrive in the refuge of a kipuka. In this episode we hear the story of three places where people are caring for the land. At the base of the Ko’olau mountains in Oahu, a church is setting out to bring 246 acres back to the community and back to health. Down by the sea, the restoration of an ancient fish pond has become an educational opportunity for thousands of children. And over the ridge, into the next valley, the growing of kalo provides a place for people to reconnect with old traditions and knowledge. These stories reveal an important truth: that as we care for and find connection with the land, the land cares for and supports us. And it leads us to ask, can our relationship with God be complete without a healthy relationship with the rest of creation?  Learn more about the organizations in the episode:  A Rocha USA Hakuhia Ho’okua’aina Taro Farm Waikalua Loko Fish Pond Thanks to Herb Lee and Dean Wilhelm for sharing their songs with us. Theme song and credits music by Breakmaster Cylinder. Other music in this episode by Northern Points, Harpo Marks, Cosmo Lawson, and Sarah Chapman, courtesy of Shutterstock, Inc.

Explore the fascinating world of the giant Pacific octopus and its unique evolutionary journey alongside humans. Discover their remarkable intelligence and playful behaviors, highlighting their advanced cognition and camouflage skills. Dive into ethical dilemmas surrounding octopus captivity while reflecting on the deeper bonds we share with non-human life. This insightful discussion invites listeners to appreciate creation and our interconnectedness, encouraging a transformative view of nature and spirituality.

From stargazing as a child to helping lead the team which took the first ever image of a black hole, Heino Falcke has only seen his faith and his work as an astronomer as deeply connected. In this episode we talk about his book, Light in the Darkness: Black Holes, the Universe and Us, where Falcke shares more about what creating the image actually consisted of, and some wisdom he picked up along the way. New discoveries will always challenge and redefine our old frameworks of thought, but Falcke shows us that this change is not fundamental, that it is a humbling reminder that our finite knowledge of the infinite God is always partial. Heino Falcke and his team’s image of the black hole at the center of galaxy M87 reminds us of a message from Paul—that we now see through a glass, darkly; then, face to face. Additional Resources: See the picture of the black hole here Check out Heino Falcke’s book Find out more about Heino on his website Theme song and credits music by Breakmaster Cylinder. Other music in this episode by Babel, courtesy of Shutterstock, Inc.  This episode originally aired on Dec 9, 2021