Dear Friend of TJI,
While we are all still processing yesterday’s tragic news of the assassination of Charlie Kirk, I find great comfort in knowing that Charlie is in a better place. Charlie wasn’t just an evangelist for freedom, he was a cultural missionary, of sorts, calling people to know and love God, and to know and love one another. I can almost hear our heavenly father say, “Well done my good and faithful servant” as Charlie was welcomed into his eternal home.
Charlie was so much more than a political influencer, he was a husband, a father, and a tireless advocate for freedom and opportunity in America. His voice inspired millions of young people, and his vision for a more principled, united country will leave an enduring mark on the freedom movement of which we are a part.
Sadly, as the Atlantic observed just yesterday, “All murders are horrifying, but political violence brings its own special challenges. A society that resorts to violence to solve its problems starts to surrender its claim on being a society.” Yesterday was a dark reminder of the fragility of America’s cherished way of life. Murdered on a university campus, under a tent emblazoned with his signature, “Prove Me Wrong” logo, Charlie was doing politics his way – using persuasion, not violence or hate. Again, as the Atlantic rightly noted, “Employing force is actually an admission of defeat. A person who resorts to violence has concluded that he cannot change the terms of debate with words or arguments.” Charlie’s death cemented the victory of the ideals for which Charlie lived!
At times like this, when loss feels overwhelming, we must remember the importance of healing. Grief can easily turn into anger, but Charlie’s legacy calls us to something higher. We must learn again to see the best in those with whom we disagree. The divisions of our day are real, but they need not be permanent. Let us commit ourselves to dividing the world not between friends and enemies, but between friends and potential friends. That vision of reconciliation is the only way forward. It is how Charlie would have wanted us to respond.
Finally, I invite you to read Governor Glenn Youngkin’s proclamation and to join with the Governor and countless others across the Commonwealth in a moment of prayer and reflection today, Friday, September 12th, at noon. As Governor Youngkin said, we must reject violence and unify once again against evil. Let us pray for Charlie’s family, for comfort to all who mourn, and for strength to move forward in unity and hope.
