Hate face
Photo by Andre Hunter on Unsplash
Have you got a minute? I need to share something. I’m tired of the undercurrent of hate fueling much of the political, social, and religious discourse in contemporary America. I humbly beg your forgiveness if I’ve done anything to contribute to the hate. Here’s the thing - I’m done. Count me out of the hate game. I’m exhausted. How do people live, eat, grocery shop, work, see their kids, and still have time to hate? I have no idea.
In the tumultuous landscape of modern politics, it's common to witness fervent expressions of disdain towards politicians. From social media rants to heated debates, hatred toward political figures seems to have become the norm. However, for those who identify as followers of Christ, it's imperative to pause and reflect on whether such sentiments align with the teachings of Jesus. In essence, hating a politician not only fails to advance any meaningful cause but also contradicts the very nature of Christianity. Where are you at the end of the day, with all your hate? In the same hateful place, surrounded by hateful people, reinforcing your hateful beliefs and telling you it’s alright to be hateful. Some people, get this, may be telling you that God wants you to hate people. I know, crazy, right?
At the core of Christian doctrine lies the principle of love. Jesus Christ urged His followers to "love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you" (Matthew 5:44). This commandment encompasses all individuals, including politicians, who may hold differing ideologies or enact policies that one disagrees with. On the other hand, hatred breeds hate, division, and hostility – sentiments opposed to the love and compassion advocated by Christ.
While it's natural to feel frustration or disappointment towards leaders whose actions may conflict with one's values, harboring hatred does nothing to address the underlying issues or bring about positive change. Instead, it perpetuates a cycle of negativity and bitterness that only polarizes society further.
The hatred of individuals undermines the credibility of the Christian message. As ambassadors of Christ, believers are called to reflect His character in all aspects of their lives. When Christians engage in expressions of hatred, they tarnish the reputation of the faith they claim to represent. It's essential to remember that Christianity should not be defined by the actions of its followers but by the teachings and example of Jesus Christ. This, perhaps, is the greatest challenge for the church in America.
In a democratic society, exchanging ideas and perspectives is vital for progress. However, when individuals are consumed by hatred, they are less inclined to engage in productive discourse or seek common ground. This only exacerbates political polarization and hinders efforts towards unity and collaboration.
Instead of succumbing to hatred, Christians are called to respond with love and grace. This does not mean disregarding injustice or condoning unethical behavior but responding with compassion and empathy. Engaging in respectful dialogue, advocating for justice, and working toward reconciliation are more effective ways of advancing the cause of Christ in the political arena.
Hating a politician (or anyone, really) is antithetical to the teachings of Jesus Christ and fails to advance any meaningful cause. Was hate at the heart of the civil rights movement? Did hate motivate dissidents in Eastern Europe who opposed the Soviet Union? As Desmond Tutu chaired the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in South Africa, where was the hate? No, no, and nowhere. Where is the hate in American society? It feels like it’s everywhere. It’s in the drive-thru at McDonalds. You’ll find it constantly on television. Social media is a cauldron of hate. Have you tried merging onto the interstate? That’s all hate.
As followers of Christ, we are called to embody His love, compassion, and grace in all aspects of our lives, including our interactions with political figures. We can contribute to a more compassionate and harmonious society by rejecting hatred and embracing love, reflecting the gospel's transformative power.