Saturday, March 19, 2011

Well That's An Interesting Point!

A while back I was listening to a debate in which a design advocate stated that there are zero observed examples of macro-evolution, or change from one species to another.  Well that's an interesting point, I thought to myself.  Finch's beaks, peppered moths, resistance to antibiotics, common examples of micro-evolution, or change within a species as offered as evidence to support a higher concept of change that explains everything.    I've also heard it said that when people look at fruit flies, where there are short observable generations and those fruit flies are subject to radiation, that their genetic structure repairs itself rather than remain damaged through subsequent generations.  Does anyone know of an example of observed change from one species to another?  Just a suggestion, but pay attention when people are citing examples of evolution.  Is that change within or change without?

Friday, March 18, 2011

Building Spaces building bridges

I find myself deeply disturbed by what I see as the growing tensions between different worldviews in the western world.  I'm a Christian, I feel perhaps it's necessary to say that right off the top, what you might call a theologically conservative evangelical Christian, although I think of myself as just a Christian.  I don't hate anybody.  In fact, I've spent most of my adult working life serving some of the most marginalized people in society, namely persons with mental disabilities.  I've always had a heart for the marginalized, perhaps because I always felt that way myself, growing up in a small town, where you feel like you're struggling against your working class background, against family break down, spiritual poverty and emotional abuse. 
So it is with a heavy heart that I try to put this out there, for anyone who might be interested in trying to start a dialogue on some very controversial issues between different people groups.  I don't even know if anyone is going to read this, but I'm going to put an invitation out there just the same.  My invitation to you, whether you agree with me or disagree with me, whether you're a liberal or conservative, secular or Christian, or anything else for that matter.  You're welcome to stay for a while, have a cup of tea and chat.  All I ask is that you do your best to respect me as a person, and I will do my utmost to do the same.  Perhaps we can offer each other a space to disagree, and try to build a bridge to understand each other a little better.  Hope you're having a good day.