Is the universe absurd?

Galileo proclaimed that the great book of the universe was written in the language of mathematics. Since Galileo’s own work on the nature of motion, mathematical equations have been used to describe all aspects of fundamental physics, to the extent that a theory is generally considered credible only when it has a comprehensive mathematical basis. The Pythagoreans believed that the physical universe was a direct manifestation of number, geometry and harmony. The concept of God as a cosmic magician, pre-existing within time, creating a universe at some moment, then watching it unfold largely unassisted, but prodding it fitfully on rare occasions, is both scientifically and theologically repugnant. Contrary to popular belief, the Christian notion of “creation” is not about God’s manipulative role in the origin of the universe, but refers to the existence of the universe being grounded in God at all times.