Phillip Byrd
Multimedia students and teachers prepare their eyes for the solar eclipse. During the total darkness, solar eclipse glasses are not needed.
On the afternoon of April 8, the world will fall into darkness for around 4 minutes from Northern Mexico to New England for the much anticipated total solar eclipse. An estimated 300,000 to a million people are expected to visit the state to experience this celestial event that begins at 1:45 p.m. in Arkansas. Little Rock and surrounding areas are listed as hotspots to view this astronomical phenomenon. Because Arkansas is in the path of totality, the Russellville Fire Department will be hosting NASA’s local broadcast coverage of the eclipse from noon to 3 p.m. to highlight the amazing 4 minutes and 11 seconds, which is longer than usual, of complete darkness. Along with experiencing one of the best views of this rare event comes many traffic and safety concerns; therefore, most area schools, including Little Rock Christian, will be closed for the day. The most recent total solar eclipse occurred in 2017, following one in 1979. After April 8, it will be around two decades before another one is visible from the United States. To watch the solar eclipse, glasses to protect the eyes can be purchased at Walmart, Home Depot, or Lowe’s. Many local libraries are also providing eclipse glasses for free, and a complementary pair is included with a purchase of any large 7 Brew Coffee drink April 7 and 8.
Many Christians have noticed significant details about the 2024 solar eclipse that align with biblical prophecies about darkness representing God’s judgment. It is also interesting to note that a lunar eclipse occurred on the day of Jesus’s crucifixion. It is written in Psalm 19:1 that “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.” Believers are encouraged to look to the skies in awe and wonder of His glory, creation, and power.
This story was originally published in the Warrior Times Volume 13, Issue 11.