The mighty Orion Nebula can be seen high in the sky January to March. Its popularity often shadows a lesser nebula that is nearby: M78. M78 takes more study because its shape is irregular and it has much less brightness than its well-known neighbor. Whenever I study the object, it reminds me of God’s concern for the least or smallest believer. The nature of His love is to give honor to things that we might consider less honorable or obvious. Part of this Godly concern is reflected in His frequent mention of orphans and widows: people less obvious and often in need. The nature of His salvation to us is similar: while we were sinners, without hope, and without ability to earn His love, He offers Himself to us through Jesus Christ. So when I enjoy observing M78 I also remember His care for me. I am not significant compared to many, but He loved me anyway–extending the same life to me as anyone who calls on His name.
Technical Note: M78 with a small telescope is a hazy whitish area that has two stars in the midst. Sometimes a third star can be see. With the assistance of astro-video on a telescope and carefully studying the monitor output from the camera, I can see the shape of the nebulosity and a little of the color that the sketch records.
