We have lived with it since before 9/11 -- Islamist extremists filled with hatred for all things American, all things Western (except our guns, bombs, incendiary devices and explosives). Sad that a faith expression that once dwelt well with Jews and Christians is so filled with hatred. So sad.
There is another side to the same coin of mistrust, hatred, revenge-seeking and fear. Conservative Christians and conservative Christian churches and conservative Christian politicians peddle the same kinds of hatred, racism, and fear of all things Muslim. Donald Trump, who can hardly be labeled a Christian, is an extreme example of people who play on these non-Christian extremes. Isn't it interesting that, in response to pressure from the right-wing Christians, Mississippi governer Phil Bryant singed a law April 15 legalizing guns in churches. I guess Jesus died for nothing.
What, again, did he say was the standard? Love God totally and love your neighbor as yourself.
That's it. Those who live by the sword (gun) will die by it. In other words, be careful what you ask for -- you might just get it. In the face of hatred early Christians learned to love, turn the other cheek, carry the load an extra mile. Sad, isn't it, that they didn't have open carry laws to help them?
What do you think? Leave a comment and let us know.
