Elements of Faith

It's easy to see the brilliance of our Creator when you look upon the starry skies or a majestic tree. But when you look at a periodic table? I'll bet most of us (myself included) have rarely been inspired to spiritual thoughts by the sight of one. Of course, that could all change after reading this unique book. Author Richard D. Duncan provides readers an appreciation for both specific elements and their Creator though a discussion of each elements discovery and uses which neatly tie into a biblical application. Volume 1 of the series (I have been assured there is another volume in progress) starts at the very top left-hand side of the periodic table with Hydrogen and continues across the chart offering a two-page mini-lesson on each element. Each two-page spread includes a discussion of the element, its properties and its uses on the left-hand page, along with several bulleted facts relating to its name or discovery. The right-hand page relates the properties and/or uses of the element to a biblical lesson that we can take from the element. A short "quick quiz" follows, with several short-answer and multiple choice questions about the element (answers included at the end of the book). A final "response" closes each lesson and offers a short prayer or thought related to the biblical application. Although the lessons are short, the write-ups on each element are fascinating, especially when science history or uses for the element in the Bible are discussed. While you won't find much in the way of chemical concepts here (oxidation-reduction, electron levels, etc.) this is an easy-to-use, casual study of the elements that be enjoyed by any student of chemistry, or for the whole family to use as a tie-in to a chemistry course taught at any level. The book brought to mind Luke 19:40, where Jesus replies to Pharisees who are criticizing his noisy, exuberant disciples. '"I tell you," he replied, "If they keep quiet, the stones will cry out."' Jess