Some years ago the Calypsonian, the Mighty Sparrow asked the question in one of his songs 'Can one man write so much stupidness?' This same question is applicable to the pronouncements of some of Jamaica's leading churchmen.

How can I not question the spiritual integrity and maturity of men who read the Beatitudes then turn around and encourage their congregants and the wider society to acquire firearms so that they can provide better and more reliable protection for themselves and family, and then try and justify this act by equating it to the installing of burglar bars on our homes?

The stupidity of this comparison is that no matter how many criminals come to enter your home, it is not likely that any of them will be injured by your burglar bars.

When churchmen feel at liberty to make pronouncements like what these men are reported to have made, it is now in the realm of spiritual apostasy; for, according to them, what protected us in the past can't do so in this post-modern age. According to these men, the dynamism of this age is proving to be challenging to God Himself.

But, all believers need to be reassured that the God who does not sleep or slumber is not challenged by any force whatsoever, and that He will always be our shield and hiding place.

Finally, I would like to let the Rev Al Miller and company know that the turning of the other cheek is not to be taken figuratively, but literally.

I am, etc.,

CASHLEY BROWN

Cashleybrown.investors

choice@cwjamaica.com