Does This Opinion Matter?

While I wouldn't say I'm an evolutionist (at least in terms of abiogenesis), I do believe that the process of evolution occurs in nature. I can honestly say that I'm not well informed on how macroevolution occurs (as opposed to microevolution, which isn't a hard thing to grasp) and have a hard time with some ideas behind that. But I'm willing to investigate and see what scientists have to say about it, without feeling my faith is threatened.

That is to say, I'm not a Young Earth Creationist (YEC). I believe that Genesis allows for an interpretation that agrees with science on the age of the earth and the universe (really, really, old) and I'm prepared to discuss that intelligently with you. Further, I believe it disingenuous to be a YEC once you've investigated the alternatives (which are reasonable and not faith-threatening as I've mentioned before). Unfortunately, a lot of YEC proponents aren't exactly the shining representations of Christian faith they would hold themselves to believe.

This is, sadly, pointed out by an avowed atheist in this post here. He's actually fair in his assessment of Christianity and the YEC position, in my opinion. Many YEC will be so wrapped up in their interpretations of Genesis, that even Christians with differing opinions have been branded heretics and the discussion about the matter devolves into heated rhetoric, all the while shaming the Gospel of Christ.

This leads to another group of people, those who don't care. These Christians are just tired of the fighting, and don't really think it matters at all to their relationship with God. I occasionally enter this camp, but I can't put myself wholeheartedly with these folks. I'm sure we'll end up seeing young-earthers, old-earthers, theistic-evolutionists, and all sorts of people in heaven; this belief won't be the deciding factor in God's judgement. On this, I'm very sure. On the other hand, I think its important to be informed on a subject that can come up fairly frequently when talking to other Christians and those outside of the church. I won't pick a fight, but when I'm asked what I believe the Bible says on the matter, I know what I'm going to say.

So what about you? Think the whole creation vs. evolution/young-earth vs. old-earth debate is a bunch of shouting in the wind? Or am I a heretic for saying evolution occurs in nature?