Editor: Hatred of any kind is one hell of a thing. We often overlook hatred as a sin and something dangerous. Even in the religious circle, hatred is often overlooked. But don’t fool yourself, it is very widespread. We sometimes under estimate the damage it can do.

Almost daily we hear on radio talk show hosts spurring out hatred. We have many times allowed this venom that comes from hatred to fester, sadly, but true from call in programmes. This hatred manifested itself in the last protest. Now don’t get me wrong, I am not saying there should not be protest. However, it should be peaceful and without hatred.

If we are indeed a Christian nation, then the principles of God’s Word must be followed. We are told to love. Even to love our enemies as ourselves. Of course we ought to hate the wrongs but not the individuals. We ought to love each other regardless.

What is sad is that even many professed Christians are filled with so much political hatred. Sometimes many of us are afraid to have conversations where we disagree because there is so much venom of hatred that is released in the words. But as a people if we are really mature enough we would be able to criticise, disagree without hatred.

We need as a nation to replace the hatred and replace it with love. I can testify to the fact that when we love and forgive those who have wronged us, it releases the power of God where HE takes charge and gives justice.

It is my wish that as a nation we would seek to love and forgive and remove the hatred from our heart. It is only by removing hatred and replacing it with love we can move forward both individually and collectively. Hatred can lead a person to become violent; it has the potential to destroy others and is one of the contributing factors to high rise in crimes.

May we look inward and gain the strength from the Lord to love and not hate. May God bless us all.

Kennard King