On Wednesday evening, September 10, 2025, I began praying for a woman and her children – people I have never met and probably never will. Every night since, I’ve gone to bed praying for them, and every morning I’ve woken up doing the same. Their lives were shattered when an assassin’s bullet took away a husband and a father.
The news was so jarring I wanted to write immediately, but anger clouded my thoughts. How could someone murder another human being simply for holding different beliefs? So instead of writing, I prayed. I prayed for Erika and her children. I prayed for the assassin. I prayed that justice would be done. I prayed.
Senator Bernie Sanders (I, VT) was one of the first to respond. And on this, he was absolutely right: “Political violence, in fact, is political cowardice.” I couldn’t agree more. There was a time when Americans could argue passionately and, if no agreement was reached, still walk away agreeing to disagree. My only concern is with some of the other terms he used in his statement, which I believe miss the mark.
But words matter. And this is where the senator, and many others, go wrong – usually purposely. He used the words “democracy” or “democratic” six times when anyone who has ever said the flag salute knows; this nation is a “Republic.” He labeled January 6th an “attack,” when what actually happened was a riot – had it been an attack they wouldn’t have left their firearms at home. I don’t excuse vandalism or violence, but exaggerating or twisting language feeds the very problem we face.
That’s what I call the “long enough and loudly enough” strategy. Say something often enough and loudly enough, and people start to believe it. Call a man like Charlie Kirk – a man who gave the opposition a microphone – a fascist, and sooner or later, some unstable person will believe it – and believe that killing a human being is a public service. On one of the bullet casings left behind, the assassin had etched: “Here fascist, catch.”
That is the danger of mislabeling. Fascists silence opposition; Charlie Kirk gave the opposition a platform. But journalism, like one of many hit pieces from The New York Times, painted him as a fascist, a misogynist or an antisemite, later adding a correction only after the damage was done. (https://dailycaller.com/2025/09/12/nyt-correction-false-claim-charlie-kirk/). By then, people had already formed their opinions.
So yes, I am thankful for (most of) the Senator’s words, his final sentence especially, “Political violence, regardless of ideology, is not the answer and must be condemned.”
Even more troubling than the mislabeling were the celebrations of his murder. Screenshots circulated online of people rejoicing that a man had been shot dead. Butchers, bakers, candlestick makers – HVAC repair people. Some brushed it off: “It’s just regular people online. They don’t matter.” But if the butcher, the baker, or the candlestick maker is gleeful over murder, do you want them serving your family? If an HVAC repairman cheers at an assassination, do you want him in your home?
And what about the gatekeepers – teachers, professors, judges, politicians? These are people in positions of trust and have now proven themselves to be untrustworthy. If they celebrate violence, they should be reminded that there is no place in society for people who cheer for murder. Civilization cannot survive if those entrusted with influence display such callousness.
So, what is our response? Not more violence. Never that. Our greatest weapon is prayer.
- Pray for Erika Kirk and her children.
- Pray for the assassin – it isn’t easy, but it’s necessary.
- Pray for leaders who condemn violence in one breath but carelessly fuel it in another.
- Pray for those people who were in the audience and were forced to witness this horrific act.
- Pray for all who hold influence, that they would repent of celebrating death.
- Pray for our nation – and our world – that we would see violence for what it is: a false and destructive answer.
Because in the end, only God can heal hearts that celebrate death. And only God can turn us back toward life.
I’m praying; please pray with me.
Here is Senator Sanders (mostly) great response:
Lastly, I want to link to this article by Duane Patterson (the link is below the videos), “That’s just five examples. I could share thousands posted on X alone. God is moving right now in people’s hearts. It’s awesome and incredible to watch. And it’s transcending ideological politics, as one would hope and expect.”
Originally, I had decided to not share any videos, but realized that my videos are my praises to God. So, in the end, here are three that I created over the last couple of weeks.
Creative Faith is a short inspirational video based on Mark 2:4, where four friends refused to let obstacles stop them from bringing a paralyzed man to Jesus. Their determination—even breaking through a roof—shows us that true faith is bold, inventive, and willing to risk discomfort for the sake of others. In the same way, God calls us today to use creativity in prayer, service, and love to reach people who need Christ. Whether through simple acts of kindness or fresh ideas for ministry, this video invites us to consider how we might step out in daring, creative faith.
Creative Faith
Life can feel like a maze of choices, twists, and wrong turns. But Psalm 73:24 assures us that we’re not left to figure it out alone. God’s Word is more than advice—it’s a compass pointing us in the right direction and reminding us of His steady hand guiding us home.
God’s Guidance (Text Version)
When life feels uncertain, God’s Word is our compass. Psalm 73:24 reminds us that His guidance is steady and trustworthy, leading us step by step until the day He receives us in glory. This short reflection reminds us that we are never left to wander—God’s hand is over us now and always.
God’s Guidance
https://hotair.com/generalissimo/2025/09/15/this-is-what-spiritual-revival-looks-like-n3806799
Steven Stoops -- TUCOR Five One Seven Productions 
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