This week shook many of us. The murder of Charlie Kirk—someone known for respectful debate on tough topics, for bringing people together, for being a loving husband and proud father, and faithful Christian—reminds us that evil is real. He leaves behind a young wife and two small children, and it’s shocking to see some people even celebrating his death.
There are many ways to process this, but one thing I want to touch on which I don’t hear much: taking this as a prompt to reflect on our own role in the political dialogue. I can’t change many of the big things in the world, but I can change myself.
The Christian Call: Not to Violence, But to Interior Change
From many sources we hear anger, blame, and hatred for current political leaders. And calls for “this violence to end”. But how can we do that?
Today I want to focus on what I’m able to influence: What am I saying in conversation? Do I approach topics fairly, with appropriate neutrality and curiosity? Do I listen to those around me and show them respect? I’m not talking about your grandma’s opinion or Trump’s posts, your neighbor’s rant or the international news. I’m looking at my own heart, and encourage you to do the same.
- First, we must acknowledge that we ourselves are capable of evil—even in small ways. Hatred, bitterness, jealousy, pride. These are seeds that, left untended, grow into something dangerous.
- Then, we root those out—by God’s grace. Through prayer. Through gentleness. Through repentance.
- We choose the hard path: disciplining our thoughts, our schedules, our responses—so we can love well, even when someone hurts, frustrates, inconveniences or disagrees with us.
- We speak up when required. We protect the vulnerable. We defend truth. But always with love as the goal, not revenge.
The killer of Charlie Kirk likely allowed many thoughts, resentments and hatred to build up to a point when he was ready for violence. Root them out in your own heart, so that your contribution to the political temperature and cultural discussions can bring good, not hatred of your political or philosophical opponents.
Pray for enemies and leaders
Jesus’ words in Matthew 5:21–22 are sharp:
“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not murder.’ But I say to you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment…” (Matt. 5:44).
It’s not just about the outward act. Jesus calls us to examine what is in our heart: anger, bitterness, harsh speech. These too have consequences—also in how they shape us and how we reflect Christ. Consider historical examples such as World War II, and how we are capable of much evil if there is evil in our hearts.
Paul also instructs believers to pray—for all people and all those in authority—so our communities might lead peaceful, godly lives (1 Timothy 2:1–2). While we may disagree with our leaders or their actions, we as Christian are called to pray for them. (Paul wrote this while Nero was emperor of Rome, can you imagine the response of believers in his time?!)
What Can We Do? Some Personal Challenges
Here are a few heart-steps—small but meaningful—for what it looks like to respond to evil with love:
- Check your reaction. Did you celebrate Charlie’s death? Even quietly? Repent, and ask for God’s forgiveness.
- Pray for public figures, even those you disagree with. It doesn’t mean you endorse them—it’s asking God’s wisdom and blessings for those in power. These are often hard jobs with many dilemmas, and these people need a lot of wisdom. You can pray.
- Root out the bitterness. Do you carry resentment toward someone? Let go by praying for them, blessing them. Let grace soften your heart so you can genuinely desire good for them.
- Reflect on daily choices. How do you respond when someone frustrates you? Do you lash out, judge? Or do you pray, forgive and bless?
- Debate with respect. Follow Charlie’s example, researching topics and engaging with people as part of a healthy political process, while genuinely willing the good of the person in front of you.
Why This Matters
Because evil grows—not always in big acts, but often in small decisions: gossip, harsh words, envy, and anger left unchecked. And the world becomes more fractured.
Jesus didn’t call us just to avoid murder. He called us to deeper righteousness: to love enemies, forgive those who hurt us, to pray for those who persecute us. (Matt. 5:44)
When we choose love over hatred, light over darkness, grace over judgment—especially in our own hearts—real change begins. Not just in society, but in the world, one heart at a time.
A Closing Prayer
Lord God, give us eyes to see where we harbor evil in our hearts. Reveal how we fall short—in thought, word, or deed. Give us courage to repent. Fill us with the grace to choose love even when it costs us, and especially for those who disagree with us. Let our hearts become places of blessing, mercy, and peace. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Veritable with Emma 
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