Letter: Having differing beliefs not, in itself, the problem

By Letter to the Editor on October 20, 2021.

Dear editor,

The differing beliefs about COVID continue to cause division, and force people to make difficult choices. There seems to be two extreme camps (and various ones in between). One that believes COVID is a hoax of the world powers, and the vaccine is a poison (or worse). And one that believes COVID is real, and the vaccine immunizes people (as other vaccines) as a way to get it under control.

However, having differing beliefs is not, in itself, the problem.

There have always been, and will always be, diverse beliefs and ideas within any society. The problem is when people stop caring for each other, and stop treating each other with respect and love. The problem is when we, as Christians, forget that we have a God who is bigger than any pandemic; bigger than the world powers or corrupt ploys of government. The problem is when we turn to other people, or the internet, as our “source” for life. The mass of information that is coming to people has caused a lot of confusion, frustration and anger, but it has ultimately caused something even worse! It has taken our focus off Jesus Christ, our only true “Source.” He will not lead us astray, give us false information, or cause us to lose all compassion and respect for people. May we be able to rise above all that divides, with the shared belief that, no matter what the circumstances, we are called to care for each other, loving our neighbour as ourselves.

Betty Gader

Medicine Hat

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