Dear Pastor,

In today's society, people have no tolerance or heart for perpetrators that commit grave wrong to them. We have reached a point where swift punishment should be brought on an individual who has wronged another person. There has been a stagnation of growth in Jamaica today that is reflected in the level of crime that is committed. Though, I will not be biased to say that because of a bad economy that one is driven to commit the crime of stealing, but there are just some individuals that believe that it is easier than finding a honest job that may pay little, but at the same time does bring some bearing of fruit.

There are those in society that see a thief as one who should be killed to satisfy what they may believe is the 'ultimate punishment'. Sadly, the Scripture that speaks of "who is without sin cast the first stone" doesn't apply. For years, Jamaica has been plagued with theft of its natural resources by individuals that we placed in office to provide a means of hope and comfort in our lives. We have been massacred with high taxes that we don't see going to use but to facilitate the luxurious life of the 'big man' in charge of our business.

led astray

We have been led astray by aspiring speeches of a better tomorrow, but instead, we have been left to the heavy burden of poverty that suffocates us at every turn. So, with all these promises and being betrayed left, right and centre and the money we worked so hard for is used for non-progressive uses, the desperate man is led to steal down the road for his own survival.

stealing will never end

Unfortunately, stealing will never end. There is no cure humanly possible to correct this. It is a sin which is embedded in most men that don't warrant thought or comprehension to amend. When God comes for his world, all will be solved. In the mean time, our society will continue to slump deeper in the abyss of misery and despair. Sad to say, we live in the era of dog-eat-dog.

Initial Withheld, USA

Dear ...,

Some folks may believe that you are saying that the poor and unemployed who steal, should be excused for committing such crimes because of their social status. I don't believe that is what you mean to imply. However, it cannot be denied that there is a link between poverty and crime. But, that raises another question. What about white collar crime? These are not always needy people.

Thanks for your provoking thoughts.

Pastor