Planetary Formation Continued

To continue our discussion regarding the composition of our solar system, there is apparently John Lewis' theory of "equilibrium condensation" (Sky & Telescope, "My Apologies to Mercury," Feb. 2012, p. 18) which partially explains how certain elements can condense from gas at certain temperatures and pressures relative to the sun, or what would have been the "solar nebula" according to http://burro.cwru.edu/Academics/Astr221/SolarSys/Formation/planets.html 

The same Sky & Telescope article cited above states that recent observations by Messenger has found evidence of elements on Mercury that do not fit with the condensation model.  Further, as the website cited above describes, Mercury should not have a magnetic field because the elements necessary for such should not have formed there; but it does. 

As usual, the more answers found, the more questions arise.  However, to ask about the process of formation of the solar system, galaxies, and universe is valid as a believer--to trust in who, but to ask how, that is the aim.  One step closer with the theory of equilibrium condensation, thanks to John Lewis.

Psychology and Christianity

Why is it that so many conservative Christians are at war with Psychology?  Overall, I think that most Christians have a shallow understanding of psychology from one general psych undergraduate course or less, wherein they have decided that Sigmund Freud was the devil, and so must be psychology.  I've heard countless evangelicals say things like, "You don't need a counselor; you need Jesus."  Alright, let's extend the analogy:  "You don't need a doctor; you need Jesus."  Sound ridiculous?  It should. 

Furthermore, I have heard preachers bash psychological theories from the pulpit, opining that they are self-centered rather than God-centered.  Do they also condemn medical theories because they are also focused on the self/body rather than Christ?  The problem is, you're assuming that psychology suggests itself as the spiritual answer for humankind.  It does not do this just as medicine does not do this, nor any other serious discipline other than theology.  Psychology simply is.  It is a science whereby observations are attempted to be made to form models and theories that are helpful to us. Take what you find helpful and use it to help others; discard the rest.  But please do not throw the drinking water out with the bath water. 

It's obvious that many Christians think the spiritual healing Jesus brings instantly transfers to the soul, and that counselors and psychologists could not possibly play a role in God's redeeming, sanctifying work in a believer's life.   How could you tell someone that was abused as a child that he/she could not use a counselor or suggest that he/she should not use a counselor and that "all you need is Jesus?"  Could it possibly be that Jesus is using the counselor to heal and redeem that person?  But ah, here we have it.  Is it that you want God to only work within the walls of your church?  Do you want to own Him?  Let Him work through His people no matter what discipline they are working in, even if it's psychology.

Galaxy Composition

"Once the distinct kinematic components of the Galaxy had been isolated, an interesting fact arose in that the chemical composition of the stars in those components also varied in a regular manner. Disk and bulge stars tend to be rich in heavy elements (above helium on the periodic table). Halo stars tend to be very poor in heavy elements"  (http://abyss.uoregon.edu/~js/ast123/lectures/lec10.html) emphasis mine.

So the hypothesis is at least supported in some way.  But what is it about the structure of our universe that results in the metallic or terrestrial bodies being closer to the source of gravity?  Simply gravity itself?  The heavier an object is, of course, the closer it will approach the gravity source, makes sense. Is there something more to this than just heavier elements gravitating toward the gravity core?

beyond yourself

Here is a place that is finally free of expectation.  I present my thoughts selfishly as a means of expression and contemplation.  However, the possibility of your benefit makes the prospect of this creation all the more compelling.

Did you know that the solar system is divided into two parts?  The gas giants (Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune) are separated from the terrestrial planets (Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars) by the asteroid belt.  Interesting.  Why is the solar system organized this way?  Planetary scientists would probably discuss its formation.  However, I'm interested in its thoughtful organization.  Is it mere coincidence that our home planet is set up like the solar system?  The outer layers are made of gas, the inner layers are made of rock, and finally, the core is molten.  If our own solar system has this pattern, and the earth also, could not the galaxy also be expected to have a similar composition?  Is the matter closest to the center of our galaxy more metallic in nature and the matter farthest from the center more gaseous?  I would hypothesize that this is true.  For those of you who may know something related to this, please comment and increase my knowledge.

From a distance, I see
the sun shine on the mountaintops.
It's cloudy here; it's raining here,
but in the distance, there are mountains.
It's muddy here; it's freezing cold,
but in the distance, there are mountains.
The birds take wing as if faith and will
are all the same,
And I am staring at my feet.
How does one step compare to
where I'm supposed to be?
How does one step help at all?
How does one step set me free?
Do I have the resources to get there?
Enough to enjoy it once I'm there?
Enough to come and get my family
and take them back again?
Is the distance just to be
viewed from here--an illusion
for the sake of hope
so that I'll remain,
so I'll maintain,
so I will not despair?
Or is it for to be there?