Tragedy in Utah

Recently, I learned about the shocking murder of Charlie Kirk—yes, it’s being called an assassination. This tragic event took place during an event in Utah on September 10th. Charlie was only 31 when he was fatally shot while discussing gun violence.

I feel deeply disturbed and, honestly, quite furious about what has transpired.

It’s imperative we pray to love what God loves and grow to hate what God hates.

The political violence surfacing on college campuses is leaving a lasting impression. Those who witnessed the event, along with countless others, are haunted by the harrowing images from Orem, Utah. It’s heartbreaking, really, seeing families torn apart as husbands and fathers are taken away.

This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the ever-present reality of evil.

Charlie Kirk was not just an influential commentator on political and social issues; he was also a committed Christian who spoke boldly about Jesus. He often discussed Jesus as the Savior, the Resurrection’s significance in history, and the truth found in the Bible—the essential need for salvation. Truly, Jesus embodies hope for our world.

The Bible clearly states that God detests evil. On the day of judgment, His wrath will be meted out with holy justice. Until then, those who believe must strive to embody Christ and share in His revulsion towards evil.

Solomon outlines a few things that the Lord despises. In Proverbs 6:16-19, we read:

There are six things that the Lord hates:
Seven things that are truly detestable to Him:
A proud look, a lying tongue,
Hands that shed innocent blood,
A heart that devises wicked plans,
Feet that run swiftly to evil,
A false witness who speaks lies,
And one who sows discord among brothers.

Notice these troubling phrases: “hands that shed innocent blood,” “hearts conceiving evil,” and “feet that run to evil.” Each one paints a picture that God utterly hates, and all were evident in Utah on September 10th. A life was taken unfairly, amidst scenes filled with fear and chaos. We can hardly put into words our discontent. It’s unbearable.

If God despises such acts, shouldn’t we be equally weary of them? We need a collective resolve to identify evil, evaluate it through a biblical lens, and raise awareness about its presence. We must commit ourselves to become good, truthful, wise, beautiful, and righteous. It’s not just a suggestion; it’s a call to action.

Truths resonate from God’s wisdom, and they’re worth taking to heart.

Sometimes our cultural landscape appears to echo a severe lack of biblical understanding, as well as a deficit in common sense. I know that general statements often fail to portray the full picture. There are many who share a weariness with escalating political language that demonizes and divides. Yet, in this digital age, we are constantly reminded of humanity’s darker impulses.

The destructive fruits of secularism and materialism have seriously harmed our discussions.

If you’re anything like me, the surge of tragic news over the past month can be overwhelming, filling your mind with sorrow. Proverbs 6:16 reminds us that such evil is a “disgust” in the eyes of the Lord. He “hates” what’s described in Proverbs 6:17-19.

God is anything but indifferent. He is involved and engaged. He is wise, just, and good; thus, the true evil should tremble.

The death of Charlie Kirk was not just another statistic—it marked a significant societal event. Let’s hope that those involved in such acts are swiftly brought to justice. As a community, we should pray for truth to overcome delusions. And, ultimately, we ought to pray that we align with what God loves and detest what He despises. We should be unwavering messengers of the Gospel, sharing the grandeur of God’s Word.

Our days are limited, and life is fleeting. We live here on earth but hold identities shaped by heaven. We must embrace our responsibilities wisely. Pursue truth courageously, oppose darkness, engage with your local church, and invest time in your family. These are commendable pursuits, and I believe they resonate with God’s heart.

Rest in peace, Charlie Kirk.

This reflection draws inspiration from thoughts expressed elsewhere regarding how to maintain faith in the face of evil.