We have been shocked and horrified by the terrible atrocity perpetrated against the American people last week.

One is constantly amazed at the hatred and cruelty that motivates people, especially those who claim to have religious faith, whether it be Catholic, Muslim, Jewish or Protestant.

However, I am reminded that in the 1st Century there lived a young religious fanatic called Saul of Tarsus. He harboured such burning hatred against Christians that he went all over Palestine and Syria killing and imprisoning them. If he had lived today he would probably have been a suicide bomber.

One day, something happened that changed his life and attitude completely.

On the way to Damascus to persecute more Christians, he had a religious experience. Instead of being consumed with hatred, his life was dominated by love and he later wrote: "If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written, 'It is mine to avenge; I will repay,' says the Lord. On the contrary. If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this you will heap burning coals on his head. Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good."

Such moral demands are beyond the powers of mere human nature, but if, like Saul of Tarsus, our lives are changed by God, they could have a world-changing impact.

-Reverend John Webster, Gleton Avenue, Hove