Fear, guns and elites in today’s letters to the editor.

Pick of the day: Engage on matters of faith

Re: “Atheist group’s billboards in Roanoke area draw strong reaction,” Dec. 22 news story:

I encourage fellow Christians to consider a more thoughtful engagement with groups like the Blue Ridge Coalition of Reason than the emotional reactivity reported in the Dec.22 article. Vandalism does not fairly represent Christ, who “while we were yet sinners, died for us.”

The assumption that Christian belief has no evidence uses “evidence” too narrowly. The argument claims we can know only what we verify with our five senses or scientific inquiry. However, this assumption is not testable by the five senses or science. By its own criteria, it is unknowable.

Christians are called to “make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you.” Christians have compelling reasons for belief in God, revealed in nature, philosophy, history, archaeology and even science (among others).

If when reacting to different concepts we also reject the people who espouse them, we lose the chance to share those reasons. These billboards represent an opportunity to start a conversation. Christians need to be winsome in their arguments for faith if others are to consider the hope we have.

DAVID TAYLOR

FLOYD