Volume 32

It’s the Da Vinci code you haven’t heard about: a set of construction specs and standards for an invention 500 years before its time.

Though Leonardo Da Vinci is best known for the Mona Lisa and The Last Supper, he was also an inventor and engineer with an insatiable curiosity. He was especially taken with the notion of human flight and drew countless sketches of birds and flying machines in notebooks called the Codex Atlanticus. Among those drawings from 1483 was one of a primitive parachute, something no one else had even conceived of. Next to the sketch, he wrote: “If a man is provided with a length of gummed linen cloth, with a length of 12 yards on each side and 12 yards high, he can jump from any great height without any injury.” It would be 515 years before anyone would test that theory.

Modern parachute designers and manufacturers all agreed Da Vinci’s device wouldn’t work. But British skydiver Adrian Nicholas and some academics got together to built a parachute with period tools using the materials and specs recorded by the Renaissance inventor. When they were finished, it weighed almost 200 pounds. And there was a lot more than just one man’s safety riding on the experiment. Researchers were using the test to gather data that would improve computer programs for the development of better heart valves, cancer detection, safer cars and improved air traffic control. Advances in the 21st Century were being guided by a 15th Century visionary.

Willing to risk his reputation and life, Nicholas knew that, once airborne, there was no turning back: he’d either fall or fly. To the relief of everyone, it worked! The simple but safe device was dropped from 10,000 feet and went scudding across the sky with an ease and grace no one could’ve predicted. Twenty generations of doubt disappeared.

What a wonderful metaphor for the trust we can place in another inspired design — a design for operating above the world in a safe and effective way that frees the spirit to soar. God laid out that plan centuries ago in his Holy Word. In many ways, the Bible is like Da Vinci’s Codex Atlanticus. It reveals the wisdom and skill of a supreme Artist, Inventor and Engineer. And amid the many glimpses into the mind of God, the most powerful is his design for the parachute of love. Love, after all, is what carries us, keeps us safe and helps us land on our feet, no matter how rough the ride.

The Bible is an inspired insight into how to live with love, light and laughter. It’s a blueprint for setting the spirit free from the chains of sin and self-centredness. By showing us the way heavenward, Jesus liberates us to find our real life above the world. And even when life brings us down, his love ensures we’ll make a happy landing.

Does God’s way work? Many doubters heap scorn and disdain on any suggestion an ancient guide could be relevant to modern life. But the Master’s earliest disciples were true believers. “Hold onto the pattern of right teaching,” wrote Paul. “And remember to live in the faith and love you have in Christ Jesus.” (2 Timothy 1:12-14) Every design is only as good as the One who conceives it, and that’s why we can be bold and confident. The Pattern we live by is a reflection of God’s own heart and mind. And rather than simply leave us dry details from days long past, He gives us the help of the Holy Spirit who brings modern viality to the ancient vision.

Through the Bible, the 21st Century is guided by a 1st Century visionary, Jesus Christ. But people will remain doubtful until they see evidence the Design works. That’s why we must be willing to put our lives and reputations on the line, demonstrating our faith in the Master’s plan. So pluck up your courage, pack up your fears, and pick up your parachute. Adventure awaits. Throw yourself into it!

By Rick Gamble. Published in Cross Current, the weekly newsletter of the followers of Christ congregation in Brantford, Ontario, Canada. Reprint at will in not-for-profit publications. To subscribe to this free weekly article,