On evolution

The debate on evolution is about macroevolution. Most theists have no problems believing in micro-evolution. But to argue that man and other primates are descended from the same ancestor gives many the creeps. It is unfortunately sad that many do not know enough about evolution and the doctrine of creation to decide for themselves what they choose to believe. For example, have you ever heard of theistic evolution? But whatever your stand, I firmly believe that the right way forward is to have a proper understanding of the issues.

In that regard, I highly recommend that you are familiar with the modern evidences for Macroevolution, because the theory of evolution has come a long LONG way from Darwin. At the same time, be learned about the true controversies surrounding evolution, and be knowledgeable but highly careful about the intelligent design arguments.

There is nothing wrong with believing by faith. But it should always be faith seeking understanding.

Where to go?

One of my favorite places to go for cell group outings is the ice-cream place. Lots of places now have the cosy and casual environment just right for cell members to unwind and to open up. Many of them can now be found in Singapore in secluded corners so that you can have your non-intrusive discussions and sharings. Here is a link just for you.

My latest poem

I call it The Philosophy of Time, enjoy.

The days are long,
even longer than the years.
Killing time is tough,
recalling yet an instant disappear.
Allow me to count the seconds distinct,
money in the hands of a cautious cashier;
attempts yet so foolish when considered,
keeping time for moments so dear.
Keg of beer, O keg of good cheer,
ever a companion,
the friend without peer.

My latest and last poem for a long, long time. It's not hard to see why. ;)

Internet Debates

This is an interesting comic from www.xkcd.com

This is a common scenario for me. Over time, I learn to be respectful and cautious with my debates online, especially on religious issues.

I read this somewhere:
The bottom line - this is an internet discussion on a boardgame site. Little to no progress will be made, people will disagree with each other and say rude things about each other's cherished beliefs with little to no justification and a huge dose of ignorance (this goes for both sides in these sorts of debates). People will make impassioned claims based on limited, distorted experience and will dogmatically hold to their positions come hell or highwater. That's an internet discussion about religion or politics in a nutshell.

Comments?

Remembering Martin Jr. King

Inspired by this.

Let's all do it.

I have a dream.

I have a dream that the church will be in unity in support of one another, and in work and evangelism to the world.

I have a dream that we can accept one another in authenticity and serve the ministries with humility and joy.

I have a dream that we will enjoy learning, and yearn to express the truth with beauty and a compassionate heart.

I have a dream that we will all work together to bring back the lost, and to cherish what we have now.

Past it on, and leave a comment if you will.

In designing a game (Part 1a)

I know I have promised to submit Part 2 of my installment soon, but it will take a while more.

Meanwhile I chanced upon a website that is exactly what I endeavor to do when I design a puzzle hunt, just like the one I did for the games in Youth Leadership Camp 2006.

Enjoy, but please keep the methods to yourself so that I can get to use them when the need arises.

What is Intellectual Pride?

We are supposed to be praying against intellectual pride on 19th May. This sermon by Phillips Brooks should be of great help to us. The relevant section begins with the paragraph "I would speak again on what is called intellectual life..."

In designing a game (Part 1)

Games and fun are part and parcel of youth ministry. I hope that I could help your church in this area by sharing about the making of "WWCD (What Would Calvin Do)" and "Who is Johnny C?".

I was given the project of handling 2 games in the Synod Youth Leadership Camp 2007. Here are some key concerns.
1. Objective - This is always the primary concern. In last year's camp, the objective is interaction between different participants of the different churches, hence a puzzle-solving game design. This year, the objective is knowledge-acquiring and interest-building in the subject matter (John Calvin). Hence, it was determined that it would be a trivia game.
2. Quality of the Participants - Quality of participants means the type of players we have. Since they are youth leaders, it is possible and necessary to have a more complex rule-set. Else, they will be bored by simplistic objectives and a "been-there, done-that" feeling. However, since it is a Calvin-trivia, and not a pop culture trivia, (it is not a game among Presbyterian pastors), a high degree of randomness is essential. This means that the game design should not be highly dependent on an extensive knowledge of Calvin. Instead, the participants just have to be good enough to make intelligent guesses. Take special note that pure randomness (like snakes and ladders) in a game is to be avoided at all cost, because participants need to feel involved, like their decisions matter. Hence the key idea: a game design that allows for good guesses.
3. Quantity of Participants - This means the number of players we have. The ideal game situation for a strategy game is 2-6 players. The higher the number of players, the higher the amount of decision-making situations needed so that all players will feel involved. In a situation of 100 players, it is necessary to form teams (unless you are playing games like Bingo). I decided on 10 teams of 10 members. 10 teams would mean that the situation will not be overly chaotic (more teams=more chaos, more chaos=strategy more meaningless). 10 members per team means every member can still be reasonably involved (more members = less responsibility, less responsibility = less involvement). It is not the ideal situation for a trivia guessing game, but it is the best that I can make do.

Until next time, I will share the Part Two of The Making of WWCD and Who is Johnny C? where I will share about the strength and weaknesses of the two games.

The Problem of Evil

Premise 1: If God exist, then he would eradicate evil.
Premise 2: Homework is evil.
Premise 3: I have to do homework, hence evil exist.
Conclusion: God does not exist.

If you are a reader of this blog, please send in at least 1 comment on the above argument. We look forward to an interesting discussion.

Update on our beloved Boon Young

I just met him for lunch and it looks like things are progressing quite smoothly. Please continue to pray for his recovery, comfort and support. He is speaking a lot more spontaneously, and his thoughts is pretty clear. His walking is quite steady and his hand movement is continuing to improve. He can pick up a 10 cent coin, use a chopstick and do a minor tug-of-war with a piece of paper. In terms of physiotherapy, his improvements is nothing short of miraculous, though it will still take a while for full recovery.