NOTE: This is a commentary with opinions. The opinions in this commentary do not neccessarily reflect views and opinions of TownTalk Media.
By Michaela Watts
Go ahead, buy the gun. Whatever happens, it’ll be the gun’s fault. Oh, no. You just shot someone? Don’t worry, he’ll be okay. Oh, no. He’s in critical condition? Don’t worry, a couple of years ago he stated that, “Unfortunately, gun deaths will occur to keep the second amendment.” Oh, no. He died? Did you think about his kids? Did you think about his wife? Did you think there still wouldn’t be consequences?
Today’s America allows individuals to look past the consequences, as if nothing will go wrong for them. On Wednesday, a voice of the Christian conservative movement was shot and killed at an event his company organized. A voice. Not a speaker of the House. Not a politician. Not a judge. Just a man. A man who speaks his mind because he can, because every citizen of America has that right. Turning Point USA is not a “debate” organization. It’s an organization where young people of the country can peacefully come and talk about their views, gaining perspective for both sides of the political spectrum.
Why, in Today’s America, do people believe that truth is only what they think, or what their political party believes? Why, in Today’s America, is something as heartbreaking as this still a “comedic” thing? Why, in Today’s America, are people justifying an act of violence by something stated over 3 years ago by the person who was killed? Why, in Today’s America, do people confuse truth with lies? Why, in Today’s America, will people not understand peace?
A simple answer, really. They don’t have Jesus.
This act of violence, which resulted in Charlie Kirk’s death, underscores the harsh reality of a world where political discourse can tragically escalate into bloodshed.
These scriptures collectively point to the need for a transformation in how we engage with one another, especially in a polarized society. They call us to reject violence and embrace peace, to seek understanding over division:
- Romans 12:17–21: “Do not repay anyone evil for evil… Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” This passage calls for a response to violence with goodness and peace, challenging us to rise above the cycle of retaliation.
- Matthew 5:9: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” This beatitude emphasizes the value of those who actively seek peace, highlighting their alignment with God’s will.
- Philippians 4:6–7: “Do not be anxious about anything… and the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” In times of turmoil, this passage offers comfort, reminding us that God’s peace can provide solace beyond human comprehension.
Recognizing Jesus as Lord compels us to align our actions with His teachings. In the face of violence and injustice, we are called to be instruments of His peace, embodying His love and grace in a fractured world:
- Colossians 1:16–17: “For in him all things were created… all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”
In the wake of such senseless violence, let us heed the call to be peacemakers. Let us engage in conversations that build bridges, not walls; seek justice tempered with mercy; and extend compassion to those who differ from us. By doing so, we honor the teachings of Christ and contribute to healing a hurting world.
Heavenly Father,
In this time of grief and confusion, we turn to You for comfort and guidance. We pray for the family and loved ones of Charlie Kirk, asking for Your peace to surround them. Grant us the strength to be agents of peace in our communities, reflecting Your love and grace in all our interactions. Help us to overcome evil with good and to be steadfast in our commitment to justice and reconciliation.
In Your name Jesus,
Amen.
