Most people would agree that hate is not a good thing. I’m not typically that optimistic when it comes to my fellow man, but I’ll go on a limb and say the majority of people aren’t of the opinion that hate is good. Why then do I see so much of it? The volumes of unrestrained hate I’ve read lately directed at the entire Islamic population of the world is enough to make me sick. Those claiming that all Muslims are evil people that wish to kill every infidel on the planet – and then justify their own personal desire to irradicate the islamic on the word of Christ need to sit down and read the Bible again.

Muslims do not hold a monopoly on killing in the name of God. Extremists from a multitude of religions and beliefs have resorted to violence to try and push their agenda. The Crusades, the IRA, China, Japan, Nazi Germany – grab a history book, the list is long and distinguished. I see a common thread among them all – man.

So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.
John 8:7

Here comes another limb to climb out on. Compared to your average American or European, something tells me I have spent a great deal more time around Muslims than most. I grew up in an Islamic nation. Right now, I’m deployed to one. There are extremists in both – and like all extremists they aren’t going to be gracing any Hallmark cards anytime soon. Great wonder of wonders, there are good people in both countries too! I’ve lived and worked with them, they dislike the misguided extremists just as much as I do, and in many cases they too risk their lives to minimize the effects extremists can have in this world.

Let’s can this whole hate bit.