"If I can make a point with an explosion, I do." That's the motto of chemistry teacher Susan Willson, 1995 Science Teacher of the Year in Texas. Al Balmer, her colleague at McNeil High School in Round Rock, won the same award in 1996. His classroom ceiling bears the marks of numerous soda-bottle "missile" launches, and the walls are pockmarked from being struck by mousetrap-propelled cars.

These enthusiastic educators use creative ways to demonstrate the scientific principles they're trying to teach. "I've tried to show these kids how I fell in love with physics," Balmer says, and "how it relates to their life."

A true passion doesn't confine itself to words alone. We see this vividly in God's dealings with us. Paul wrote, "God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (Rom. 5:8). God gave us His Son to show us the extent of His love. Jesus Christ came into this world to die on the cross, freely giving His life to pay the penalty for our sin. God said, "I love you!" and showed it through the most remarkable demonstration the world has ever seen. Has it moved your heart to trust Him as your Savior?  — David C. McCasland