by Ami Hendrickson
But to us, God revealed them through the Spirit. For the Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep things of God.
In 2003, NASA needed a name for the space rovers that were soon to be sent to explore Mars. NASA and the LEGO toy making company sponsored a naming contest. They received over ten thousand entries.
The winning names — “Spirit” and “Opportunity” — came from nine-year-old Sofi Collis. Sofi was born in Siberia but was adopted by her American parents when she was two.
“I used to live in an orphanage,” Sofi’s entry read. “It was dark and cold and lonely. At night, I looked up at the sparkly sky and felt better. I dreamed I could fly there. In America, I can make all my dreams come true. Thank you for the ‘Spirit’ and the ‘Opportunity.’”
Spirit was designed for a 90-day mission. However, unanticipated “cleaning events” allowed Spirit’s solar panels to collect more energy than expected. As a result, the rover functioned far longer and roved much further than originally planned.
The Apostle Paul wrote today’s verse. The passage continues: “No one knows the things of God, except God’s Spirit.” In other words: God has sent humanity a “rover” on a mission of His own.
The Spirit rover searched out the mysteries of a barren, windswept planet. God’s Spirit, however, is infinite. Its whole purpose is to unveil to humanity the boundless depths of the mysteries of God.
What opportunities do I give to God’s Spirit? What roadblocks do I put in the Spirit’s path?
Almighty God, Your power is beyond my human comprehension. Please fill me with Your Spirit so that I may be more mindful and more aware of You. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.