Mars, Microbes, and the Majesty of God: A Call for Humble Stewardship

The Sacredness of Creation

Genesis 1:31 declares, “And God saw everything that He had made, and behold, it was very good.” This scripture emphasizes the sanctity of all creation, from the Earth to the vast cosmos. Each star, planet, and living organism exists with a divine purpose. As humanity ventures further into space, we must remember that God’s handiwork is not ours to manipulate recklessly.

The possibility that we may have inadvertently destroyed life on Mars serves as a sobering reminder of human hubris. Science often overlooks our spiritual responsibility to approach creation with reverence. We are called to protect the environment on Earth, not venture beyond it.

Let us not forget how easily humankind has been continually deceived by our own minds. Additionally, we must confront the hard truth that the earliest roots of science trace back to Egypt. For Christians, Egypt carries significant symbolism—representing sin and humanity's inclination to stray from God’s will.

Psalm 19:1The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims His handiwork.

Job 12:7-10 But ask the beasts, and they will teach you; the birds of the heavens, and they will tell you; or the bushes of the earth, and they will teach you; and the fish of the sea will declare to you. Who among all these does not know that the hand of the Lord has done this? In His hand is the life of every living thing and the breath of all mankind.

Colossians 1:16 For by Him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through Him and for Him.

Psalm 115:16 The heavens are the Lord’s heavens, but the earth He has given to the children of man.

Proverbs 16:18 Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.

Ecclesiastes 7:29 See, this alone I found, that God made man upright, but they have sought out many schemes.

Romans 1:20-22 For His invisible attributes, namely, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse. For although they knew God, they did not honor Him as God or give thanks to Him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Claiming to be wise, they became fools.

1 Corinthians 4:2 Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.

Tampering with the Unknown

Mars exploration reflects humanity’s insatiable curiosity, including Elon Musk's attempt to colonize it. Yet, throughout Scripture, curiosity untethered by humility has continually led to unintended consequences. Do you think our generation is any different? If microbial life once existed on Mars, was it not part of God’s creation, placed there for reasons beyond our understanding? What right do we have to disrupt it?

Proverbs 16:9 reminds us, “The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.” In our quest to understand the universe, we must recognize that some mysteries are beyond human comprehension and were never intended for us to know. The destruction of potential life on Mars is a sobering example of what happens when our actions outpace our wisdom. This should concern us deeply. We are fallen humanity.

Proverbs 3:5-7 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord, and turn away from evil.

Deuteronomy 29:29 The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but the things that are revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may do all the words of this law.

Isaiah 55:8-9 For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts.

Job 38:4-7Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth? Tell Me, if you have understanding. Who determined its measurements—surely you know! Or who stretched the line upon it? On what were its bases sunk, or who laid its cornerstone, when the morning stars sang together and all the sons of God shouted for joy?

Proverbs 14:12 There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.

Lessons for Today

This incident should serve as a wake-up call, not only for space exploration but also for how we approach creation as a whole:

1. Respect for Life: Whether microscopic or monumental, all life is sacred. We must honor God’s design in every form, even those we do not fully understand.

2. Humility in Exploration: Science and faith often find themselves at odds, with science seeking to unravel the mysteries of the universe while faith calls us to respect the boundaries set by the Creator. As stewards of the universe, we must confront the tension between exploration and preservation, choosing to prioritize reverence and care over unchecked exploitation.

3. Reflection on Intent: Our lives should align with moral and spiritual principles. Instead of relentlessly pushing the boundaries of science with the question, “Can we?” we must pause and ask, “Should we?” Now is the time to halt unchecked progress and deeply consider the consequences of our actions.