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Glimpses of Wonder™: Reflections on Jehovah’s Remarkable Design

An invitation to slow down, look closer, and be amazed.

 

Everywhere we turn, Jehovah’s handiwork speaks—sometimes in whispers, sometimes in wide-eyed wonder. Glimpses of Wonder™ takes you on a journey through the marvels of creation: from the clever mechanics of a horse’s leg to the glow of deep-sea creatures, from the balance of brain chemistry to the elegance of a falling leaf.

 

Some entries will make you laugh. Some will make you pause. But all of them aim for the same thing: to stir up awe—and give credit where it’s due.

 

Blending science, storytelling, and a deep love for the Creator, this series doesn’t just celebrate the natural world. It invites you to see what’s always been there… a little differently.

Entries in this blog

Creation

The King of Bugs: Meet the Man-Faced Shield Bug — a Glimpse of Wonder entry™ —

While commonly referred to in some circles as the “Elvis Presley shield bug,” the actual species in question is Catacanthus incarnatus (Kat-uh-KAN-thus in-kar-NAH-tus), also known as the man-faced stink bug. This rare giant shield bug has captured imaginations with its unique markings that resemble a human face. For some observers, these markings evoke the eyes, nose, and iconic hairstyle of Elvis Presley, while others see something completely different. Regardless of interpretation, this insect
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Creation

Hay or Straw? Know the Difference!

Hay or Straw? Know the Difference! We’ve all seen it—those golden bales stacked high in barns, dotting the countryside, or even decorating porches in autumn. But did you know there’s a big difference between hay and straw? While they might look similar, their purposes, properties, and even the way they interact with animals and the environment are quite distinct. Let’s dig in! Hay: The Farmer’s Gold Hay is food. It’s grown and harvested specifically to provide nutrients for animal
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Creation

Nature’s Clever Rest Stop: The Unusual Partnership of the Tree Shrew and the Pitcher Plant

Nature’s Clever Rest Stop: The Unusual Partnership of the Tree Shrew and the Pitcher Plant Let’s take a journey deep into the tropical forests of Borneo, where a rather unexpected partnership plays out between a tiny mammal and a carnivorous plant. It’s not a predator-prey relationship, nor is it a mere coincidence of shared space. No—this is a carefully designed system, one that might make you chuckle at first but leaves you marveling at Jehovah’s creativity. The Pitcher Plant: More T
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Creation

How Humidity Affects Our Perception of Temperature — a Glimpse of Wonder entry™ —

Have you ever noticed how dry winter air feels colder, even when the thermostat says the temperature hasn’t dropped? Or how, in the height of summer, the humidity in the air can feel stifling, as though you’re walking through water? These sensations are deeply tied to how humidity interacts with our body’s natural ability to regulate temperature. Let’s explore the science behind these effects, the ideal conditions for comfort, and some surprising health considerations related to humidity.  
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Creation

The Mysterious Nightjar: Nature’s Nocturnal Navigator

As twilight descends and the world grows quiet, the nightjar emerges. Shrouded in mystery and often unseen, this remarkable bird occupies a unique niche in the natural world. Its cryptic plumage, nocturnal habits, and mesmerizing calls make it a true wonder of Jehovah’s creation.   A Master of Disguise The nightjar’s appearance is a testament to the ingenuity of camouflage. With mottled plumage in shades of brown, gray, and black, it blends seamlessly into its surroundings, often
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Creation

Exotic Joy: The Remarkable Design of Leichhardt’s Grasshoppers — a Glimpse of Wonder entry™ —

Deep in Australia’s tropical savannas, a small but vibrant creature brings joy to observers while showcasing one of creation’s most harmonious partnerships. The Leichhardt’s grasshopper (Petasida ephippigera, pronounced Pet-ah-SEE-duh eh-FIP-ih-jeer-ah) spends its entire life on a specific group of plants: shrubs from the Pityrodia genus. This extraordinary relationship highlights the wisdom and care evident in Jehovah’s design of creation.   A Lifelong Home Leichhardt’s grasshopp
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Creation

Maya Nord: A Biodiversity Haven in the Congo

A Unique Clearing in the Heart of the Jungle Maya Nord, a renowned “bai” or natural forest clearing, is nestled within the Odzala-Kokoua National Park in the Republic of Congo. This iconic location is celebrated for its remarkable biodiversity, serving as a meeting point for wildlife amid the dense rainforests. These mineral-rich clearings act as vital hubs for animals seeking essential nutrients and water, creating a unique ecosystem that thrives with life.   Wildlife Marvels at
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Creation

Do Spiders Dream?

In 2022, researchers uncovered evidence suggesting that spiders, specifically jumping spiders (Salticidae), might experience sleep states akin to REM (rapid eye movement) sleep in humans. This discovery has intrigued scientists and the public alike, offering new insights into the complex behaviors of these remarkable arachnids.   The 2022 Study: Observing Spider Sleep Juvenile jumping spiders, with their semi-transparent exoskeletons, provided researchers a unique opportunity to o
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Creation

Designed for Communication and the Wonder of Learning to Speak

Have you ever wondered how babies learn to speak? At first, they seem to just make random noises, but before long, they’re forming words and sentences. It’s almost magical how an infant, starting with no understanding of language, somehow cracks the code of human speech. But behind that magic is a process that scientists are only beginning to fully understand.   From the moment they’re born—perhaps even earlier—babies are listening. They don’t just hear sounds; they start sorting them
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Creation

The Silent Symphony: How Elephants Communicate Across Vast Distances

There is something undeniably majestic about elephants. Their sheer size, their slow and deliberate movements, their deep, expressive eyes—all hint at an intelligence and complexity beyond what meets the eye. But what if I told you that these gentle giants are carrying on conversations, sending messages through the air and even through the ground, in a language we can’t even hear?   The elephant’s world is not a silent one. While we may not pick up on it, they
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Creation

Why 90% of Termites Are Essential for Life

When most people think of termites, they picture chewed-up wooden beams, collapsing houses, and costly repairs. But termites are so much more than just destructive pests. In fact, only about 10% of the world’s termite species cause the damage we dislike, while the other 90% are essential for ecosystems to thrive. Let’s dig deeper into the surprising and essential roles termites play in supporting life on Earth.   The 10% We Fear It’s no surprise that termites have a bad reputation
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Creation

The Incredible Jaw Power of Crocodiles —a Glimpse of Wonder entry™—

Crocodiles are among the most fascinating and powerful predators, equipped with an incredible bite force that reflects the intricate wisdom evident in their design. Their jaws, perfected for crushing and gripping, stand as a striking example of the awe-inspiring balance found in creation. In this edition of Glimpses of Wonder, we dive into the remarkable jaw strength of these ancient reptiles.   The Bite Force of Crocodiles   Crocodiles have some of the strongest bite forces
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Goats and Their Accents: A Vocal Wonder of the Animal Kingdom

Have you ever thought about how goats communicate? Remarkably, goats not only have accents, but their accents can change depending on the social group they’re in. This unique ability showcases how even these seemingly simple creatures reflect Jehovah’s incredible design.   Goats use vocalizations called bleats to communicate, and their “accent” depends on their environment and social connections. Research has shown that young goats, or kids, develop their initial bleat patterns from th
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Creation

Watermeal: The Tiny Wonder of the Plant Kingdom —a Glimpse of Wonder entry™—

Among the vast variety of plants that adorn our planet, there is one that stands out not for its grandeur, but for its incredible smallness. Meet watermeal (Wolffia), the smallest flowering plant on Earth. At just barely larger than a grain of sand, this unassuming marvel floats quietly on the surface of ponds and lakes, yet plays an essential role in the ecosystems it inhabits.   What is Watermeal?   Watermeal, or Wolffia, belongs to the same family as duckweed (Lemna)—both
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Creation

The Humble Dandelion: A Surprising Superfood and Medicinal Wonder —a Glimpse of Wonder entry™—

When most people see dandelions, they think of pesky weeds invading their lawns. But did you know that this common plant is not only non-poisonous but also packed with nutritional benefits and medicinal properties? In fact, dandelions have been valued for centuries as both a food source and a remedy for various ailments, and their usefulness continues today in modern herbal medicine.   True or False: Are Dandelions Poisonous to Humans?   False! Dandelions (Taraxacum officinal
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Creation

A Symphony of Survival in the Forest

Deep within the forest, an awe-inspiring drama unfolds. The goshawk, a swift and masterful hunter, moves with extraordinary precision as it navigates the maze of trees, chasing its next meal. Meanwhile, the chickadee, a tiny bird with a powerful call, sounds an urgent warning that ripples through the forest. Squirrels freeze, birds retreat, and even mammals pause in response to this alarm. Incredibly, this alarm system doesn’t just stop with one bird; it spreads across the forest as other birds
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The Tree That Throws Grenades

The Tree That Throws Grenades   A Glimpses of Wonder Entry   Imagine strolling through a tropical forest. Everything is peaceful—birds call overhead, sunlight filters through thick leaves—until you come across a towering tree with a straight trunk. At first, it seems ordinary. But then you look closer. The entire bark is covered in sharp, conical spikes, jutting out like armor. It’s the sandbox tree, also known as the dynamite tree. And it doesn’t just look dangerous—it explo
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Pelicans: Graceful Gliders of Jehovah’s Creation

Picture a group of pelicans soaring just above the water, their expansive wings barely disturbing the surface as they glide effortlessly. Pelicans have a remarkable ability to ride thermals and make use of natural air currents, a skill that showcases Jehovah’s thoughtful design of these magnificent birds.   How Do Pelicans Glide on Thermals? Thermals are rising columns of warm air created when the sun heats the ground or water. Pelicans use these invisible updrafts to gain altitud
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The Golden Tortoise Beetle and Its Shimmering Beauty

The insect world is full of fascinating creatures, and among them, the golden tortoise beetle (Charidotella sexpunctata) stands out as one of the most visually striking. With its ability to change color and its distinctive, metallic gold appearance, this tiny beetle has intrigued scientists and nature lovers alike.   A Dazzling Appearance   The golden tortoise beetle earns its name from its dome-shaped, tortoise-like shell that gleams with an iridesce
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Pine Trees That Thrive After Forest Fires

When we think of forest fires, we often imagine destruction. But did you know that some pine trees are actually designed to survive fires and grow stronger afterward? These amazing trees don’t just survive—they thrive in the ashes!   How Fire Helps These Trees Grow For certain pine trees, like the lodgepole pine and jack pine, forest fires are essential for their life cycle. These trees have special cones called serotinous cones. The cones are tightly sealed with a tough resin tha
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The Deadliest Animal on Earth: The Mosquito

When we think of dangerous animals, lions, sharks, or snakes might come to mind. But the deadliest creature on the planet is much smaller—so small it can fit in the palm of your hand. It’s the mosquito.   Why Are Mosquitoes So Dangerous? Mosquitoes are not deadly because of their bite but because of what they carry. These tiny insects are vectors, meaning they can spread dangerous diseases through the blood they consume. When a mosquito bites an infected person or animal, it picks
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Bioluminescent Bays: A Stunning Display of Light

Imagine floating through water that glows with an amazing blue-green light, as if the stars have fallen to Earth and are dancing around you. This awe-inspiring phenomenon occurs in bioluminescent bays, where microscopic organisms called dinoflagellates emit light when disturbed. It’s a breathtaking wonder that showcases the creativity and beauty of Jehovah’s creation.   What Are Bioluminescent Bays?   Bioluminescent bays, often referred to as “bio bays,” are unique coastal ec
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The Mushroom That Destroys Itself

Mushrooms have always seemed a bit suspicious to me, and I can’t say I’m their biggest fan. But even I have to admit that some of them are downright fascinating. Take the inky cap mushroom (Coprinopsis atramentaria), for example—this peculiar fungus has a built-in self-destruct button.   Unlike most fungi that slowly decompose, the inky cap dissolves into a black, inky liquid shortly after maturing. This process, called autodigestion or deliquescence, isn’t some tragic accident. It’s p
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The Leaf’s Real Agenda: Carbon Construction, Not Air Supply

We’ve been taught to thank trees for our oxygen. But while it’s true that green plants release oxygen during photosynthesis, that’s not why they do it. Oxygen isn’t their purpose—it’s their by-product. Their real work? Carbon construction.   Photosynthesis is a brilliant design by Jehovah, not primarily to refresh the air, but to build life from the air. Every blade of grass, every leaf on every tree, is on a mission: to pull carbon dioxide (CO₂) out of the atmosphere, extract the carb
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The World’s Oldest Trees: A Silent Witness to Time

The World’s Oldest Trees: A Silent Witness to Time   Some of the oldest living things on Earth don’t walk, run, or even move. They stand, rooted in place, silent observers of history. Among them is Methuselah, a bristlecone pine hidden in the White Mountains of California. At nearly 5,000 years old, this tree has been alive since before the pyramids of Egypt were built. High in the mountains, battered by icy winds and relentless sun, Methuselah and its ancient relatives endure. Their t
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