Responding with Love to Charlie Kirk's Assassination

The recent assassination of Charlie Kirk has sparked a significant reaction- while many are dismayed, there are factions that are celebrating. So, how do we, as individuals striving to embody the love of Christ respond? Matthew 5:44 says, "love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you."

We also need to remember we have been warned.

John 15:18-19 “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you."

First, it's essential to recognize what we are dealing with.

Matthew 24:12 "And because lawlessness will be increased, the love of many will grow cold".

Hate can manifest in numerous ways, often fueled by misinformation, fear, and anger. This event is viewed by many as a victory or a chance to promote their own agenda. We must fight back with the very weapon they seem to lack... love.

Romans 12:9: "Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good".

As Christians, our calling is to respond with compassion and kindness. This doesn't mean turning a blind eye to injustice or pretending not to feel outraged. It calls us to seek a higher ground and rely on Christ to help us. When faced with hate, we have a choice- to retaliate in kind or to respond with love.

Matthew 18:21-22 "Then Peter came up and said to him, “Lord, how often will my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?” Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you seven times, but seventy-seven times."

Remind yourself that behind every act of hate, these are everyday people with insecurities, fears, challenges, and personal struggles. In trying to understand their perspective, we can still condemn the behavior and choose to love the person. This can lead to productive conversations and potentially transform relationships.

Proverbs 10:12: "Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all offenses".

Instead of fighting online and calling for war and causing more divide, we need to conduct ourselves as what we are- disciples of Christ. We are living in the days of the wheat being seperated from the tares. It is painful. It is affecting families and old friends. We need to show the love of Christ in the words we use and how we behave. Counter the negative with positive.

John 13:34-35 "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another".

By responding with love, we can be a beacon of hope and a testimony that points people to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

After all- I bet Charlie would say. "What would Jesus do?"

Prayer

"Heavenly Father, In this moment of deep sorrow, we come before you to lift up the family of Charlie Kirk. Grant them strength and comfort in their time of loss. Surround them with your love and peace as they grieve the pain of this tragic event.

We also ask for your guidance to help us love those who may harbor hate in their hearts. Teach us to respond with compassion, understanding, and forgiveness, as you have shown us on the cross.

May we find solace in our unity and support for one another. Let Charlie's legacy inspire us to promote love and healing in the world. In the mighty name of Jesus, Amen."