Earth and the Systems Engineer

Many times, I have encouraged people to ride up to the top of the hill and get the big picture. This time, however, the view is from out in space. The subject is our blue marble. Consider how there are many things operate to make Earth supportive of life.

Our planet is situated in a quiet galactic neighborhood with a good-natured sun, unlike some of those other stars that emit gamma rays that would eradicate life on their worlds (if it existed in the first place). Since the sun has its own activity, Earth has deflector shields.

Earth in hand, Pixabay / Okan Caliskan

We also have the right gasses in the atmosphere at the right balance (oxygen explodes, you know). The distance from the sun, our orbit around it, the moon — indeed, the other planets in the solar system are needed to keep things in balance.

When humans want to design a complex system, engineers are needed. They design things and keep them running. Several factors must be taken into account so their designs can work well with other systems. That's where systems engineers are needed. They need to have detailed knowledge of several areas and get the other engineers to work together and make the whole thing work.

Jesus is the Systems Engineer for Earth and the rest of the universe. God the Son brilliantly designed it all and keeps things running. It is astonishing that he humbled himself, came to Earth as a man, and was crucified on a cross for your sins and mine. Jesus Christ arose from the dead, defeating death. People can be adopted by God the Father and become his children, those who humble themselves, repent, and ask for forgiveness, making Jesus the Lord of their lives. The Creator of the universe can be living in you.

Systems engineers are often the technical leaders for vast and complex projects. They develop the concept, architecture, and intricate design of the system. They also evaluate and manage complexity and stability. Systems engineers determine how to assess whether a system is functioning as designed. They are also in control of the myriad of other facets of system creation.

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One example of a complex system that clearly displays the hallmarks of skilled systems engineering is that of planet Earth and its external support systems (the sun, our galaxy, our moon, etc.). It is beautifully designed, optimally positioned within the solar system, and intricately balanced to enable and sustain life.

To read it all, see "Earth’s design for life — A systems engineering masterpiece."