I go by what the Catholic Church teaches. That wise little phrase of Gandhi's just happens to sum it up well in discussion. Our interpretations differ; that's OK with me. If you believe God hates people as opposed to simply hating the evil they do, that's your prerogative. It isn't my prerogative to hate people, only the evil they do. I am obliged to pray for their conversion- not in the sense of becoming Catholic- but in a personal conversion from evil to good.
I believe that God is infinite, and that no one in this life can fully comprehend Him. I don't think of Him as Santa; rather I think of Him as I did of my parents. They loved me unconditionally, guided me both with kindness and punishments, when I had a lesson to learn. They took care of me and taught me what they knew to be right in how to treat other people. When I was away from my Faith, they let me decide for myself. I CHOSE to be Catholic! My story is in a post a few weeks back.
I loved my parents, but God comes first. I believe the Catholic Church has the greatest fullness of Truth. Do I hate those who believe differently? NO! There are many paths to God. I was not pushed, I think no one should be. Read my posts in forum: I look for commonality; I question to understand. Our Holy Father is praying this month for Christian unity; I support him in prayer.
Some are willing to discuss as good, kind Christians. Others, no. What they believe is up to them, but I, while respecting their belief that theirs is the true belief (why would a person stray from what they truly believed was right? Right? :) ) I hold fast to the wisdom of the Church in following God!
Again I thank you for your kind response. It's the first I've had today...
God bless you!
27 But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you,
28 Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you.
29 And unto him that smiteth thee on the one cheek offer also the other; and him that taketh away thy cloke forbid not to take thy coat also.