09/11/2025
America had a bad day yesterday. The shock of the Charlie Kirk assassination still hasn't worn off.
Most folks who I've spoken with are feeling anger, rage, sadness, despair, and a host of other negative emotions. I have felt all of them--so if you are feeling the same, I just want to say you are not alone.
I'm also feeling gratitude--for Charlie Kirk and his family. For Charlie, a guy that tried to bridge our deep political divides by inviting discussion and dialogue precisely with the people who disagreed with him most. For the entire Kirk family--they led the effort to change our public discourse while maintaining their Christian beliefs at the front and center of everything. They never missed an opportunity to model Christ-like behavior and yesterday, in the depths of tragedy and loss, called out for God's mercy and refuge in a stunning moment of fervent resolve. God bless them and hold them.
You've probably already seen this, but when Charlie was asked a couple months ago how he would like to be remembered, he said:
"I want to be remembered for my courage, for my faith. That would be the most important thing. The most important thing is my faith in my life."
These are now the words of a martyr who died trying to invite people into discussion and away from violence.
America is a little smaller in the aftermath of yesterday's tragedy of losing someone that tried to change politics the right way--through dialogue and engagement.
Charlie's words lead me to feel resolve. My great hope is that the possibility of genuine dialogue and connection over political divides without violence did not die with Charlie. But whatever comes next, Iet us meet it wearing Christ on our sleeve like Charlie did. If there is a path to peace after yesterday, let Christ guide us to it.
Rest In Peace, Charlie Kirk. 🙏🇺🇸
