Last night, just moments before I stood to give a talk at our church about building bridges and celebrating differences, I heard the heartbreaking news: Charlie Kirk had been fatally shot at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah.
I still went on to speak, trying to be fully present, but when I returned home later that evening, the weight of it all hit me. I was shocked. Saddened. Grieved for his wife and two young children. Another person had died in this violent world.
It left me wondering what has become of the United States of America, a nation so consumed by violence and division.
This is a tragic event, regardless of political affiliation. It is an act of gun violence and an attack on public civil discourse, and neither should ever be acceptable.
Many are grieving. Others are angry. And already, this tragedy is being politicized. Emotions are high.
It comes during a year marked by multiple fatal public shootings and growing division. I feel the weight of responsibility for not speaking up more in the past and choosing to remain silent.
And today, we also remember the events of September 11th, a day that left a permanent mark on our nation. Back then, for a moment, we came together.
Today, that unity feels fragile. In this moment, I believe God is calling us to something different.
As followers of Jesus, may we be people who build bridges of unity, who value every human life, and who defend human dignity and safety.
God’s Word reminds us:
“If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”—2 Chronicles 7:14
I stand here as someone who still needs God’s grace every day, choosing to stand in solidarity with all humanity, each person made in God’s image, worthy of dignity and love. Let’s pause to grieve what is broken, to honor the lives lost, and to open our hearts to God’s healing and peace.