LOVE THROUGH IT: A Call to Rise Above Hate

In recent weeks, our world has been shaken. Mass shootings are on the rise. We’ve witnessed the tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk, the senseless killing of ICE agents, and hateful attacks rooted in religious and political division. These events are not isolated—they are symptoms of a deeper issue: a society fractured by fear, anger, and misunderstanding.

As I reflect on these times, I’m reminded of a truth that has never failed me: Hate breeds hate. When people feel unheard, unseen, or oppressed, it’s easy to lash out. But violence is never the answer. We are all part of a larger story—this storybook called life—and while we may feel like pawns, we are not powerless. We have a choice. And I choose love.

What Does It Mean to “Love Through It”?

I say this often: Love Through It. But what does that mean?

I speak as an African-American woman, a former minister, and a proud advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. Some might say I have four strikes against me. But I say, I am fearfully and wonderfully made. My identity is not a burden—it’s a blessing. And that’s where “Loving Through It” begins.

1. Stand on His Principles

God’s character is rooted in love. His moral compass points us toward compassion, grace, and justice. As Michelle Obama once said, “When they go low, we go high.” That’s not just a slogan—it’s a spiritual discipline. We must resist the temptation to mirror hate with hate. Instead, we must reflect God’s love, even when it’s hard.

I know who I am. I know I have a divine purpose. And I refuse to let hate, greed, or jealousy distract me from my mission. Our purpose is bigger than us—it’s about the collective good. So I will love through it, just as Jesus did.

2. Act—But Act in Love

Love is not passive. It’s not silent. It moves. It speaks. It stands up.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. showed us what it means to act in love. His peaceful protests, his unwavering commitment to justice, and his dream of equality changed the course of history. He didn’t fight hate with hate—he fought it with hope, with courage, and with love.

We’ve seen the power of peaceful protest in the fight for women’s rights, civil rights, and LGBTQ+ rights. These movements weren’t fueled by violence—they were driven by love. Love for justice. Love for freedom. Love for humanity.

So yes, we must act. But let our actions be rooted in love. Let them be memorable for their grace, not their aggression.

3. Be Still and Trust God

After we’ve stood firm and acted in love, there’s one more step: Be still.

Let God do what only He can do. The Bible reminds us, “The battle is not yours, but God’s.” Vengeance is not ours to take. Justice, true justice, comes from the Lord.

When the world feels like it’s falling apart, when hope seems lost, when anger threatens to consume us—Love Through It. Because love is not just a feeling. It’s a force. It’s patient. It’s kind. It doesn’t envy or boast. It keeps no record of wrongs. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, and always perseveres.

History Proves It: Love Wins

History is on the side of love. Women won the right to vote in 1920. The Civil Rights Act passed in the 1960s. Women’s ministerial rights gained ground in the 20th century. LGBTQ+ rights are advancing every day. These victories didn’t come from hate—they came from love, persistence, and faith.

So, to anyone feeling broken, angry, or afraid: I see you. I hear you. But I urge you—don’t let the darkness win. Don’t let hate define your story.

Love Through It.

Because God did. He gave His only Son so that we might live. That’s the ultimate act of love. And if He can do that for us, surely we can love one another through the storms.

Let’s live with purpose. Let’s act with compassion. Let’s trust in God’s promises. And above all, let’s Love Through It—together.