What Can a Hidden Mars Teach Us About the Majesty of God?
The Lunar Occultation of Mars
On the evening of June 30th, 2025, something remarkable will unfold in the sky above us: the Moon will pass directly in front of Mars, momentarily hiding it from our view. This celestial event, called a lunar occultation, is rare and awe-inspiring. But as I sit with my binoculars in hand and heart open to the wonder of the heavens, I can’t help but think, what might God be whispering to us in this cosmic dance?
Mars, often called the “warrior planet,” will vanish behind the gentle curve of the Moon. For a few fleeting moments, one heavenly body will eclipse another, a cosmic game of peek-a-boo happening some 49 million miles from Earth.
(The video above is a time-lapse I took of last year’s event; watch the bottom as Mars moves towards and behind the moon.)
If you're watching from parts of the U.S., including Georgia, you may be able to see Mars disappear and reappear against the glow of the moon's crescent. The contrast is beautiful: Mars, red and defiant, swallowed in silence by the pale, peaceful Moon.
The details make it even more stunning:
Timing: Around local evening time (I recommend checking an astronomy app for exact visibility in your zip code)
Best Views: With binoculars or even a small telescope
Photo Opportunity: If you're into astrophotography like me, this is your moment!
Every time I look at the stars, I'm reminded of Psalm 19:1:
"The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands."
This verse keeps coming into my path, and I just can't ignore it! Moments like this lunar occultation aren’t just cool facts to log; they’re reminders of a Creator who intricately choreographs the universe. The same God who positioned planets also breathes purpose into our lives.
Isn’t it humbling to think that while we grapple with uncertainties here on Earth, the stars and planets keep to their divine rhythm, flawless, precise, and majestic?
When Mars disappears from view, it doesn’t cease to exist. It’s only hidden for a moment. There’s something deeply comforting in that, especially if you're walking through a season where God feels distant.
Isaiah 40:26 offers gentle encouragement:
"Lift up your eyes and look to the heavens: Who created all these? He who brings out the starry host one by one and calls forth each of them by name."
If He calls the stars by name, surely He hasn't forgotten you.
This celestial ballet between Mars and the Moon is a perfect invitation: slow down, breathe deep, and look up.
Set aside your phone. Step outside. Watch as the moon momentarily hides a planet, and let it remind you of God’s power, mystery, and grace. And if you're feeling small or unseen, remember: even when Mars is hidden, it's still burning bright beyond the veil.
So on June 30th, gather your family, your friends, or just your thoughts, and look up. You’re not just watching a scientific event; you’re witnessing a heavenly whisper of divine creativity.
Until next time! Keep looking up!
-g
This is very good. I hope to observe this cosmic event tonight; however, rain is in the forecast locally. But if the rain passes, I plan to be outside watching the Moon and Mars with my binoculars!