Charlie Kirk took his mission to “make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19–20) seriously. Catholics and Non-Catholic Christians — this is our mission, too.
He shared the gospel fearlessly and boldly. His political beliefs and values were a direct result of his Christian values.
Charlie Kirk knew this: God is Love. God is Truth.
As a result of his deep devotion to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, years of studying who God is, and his obedience to God, Charlie Kirk answered God’s call to share the gospel and make disciples of all nations.
Was he always perfect in his delivery? No. Did he make mistakes? Of course.
Just like you and me, he was an imperfect person.
But he was loved perfectly by God the Father — just like you. Just like me.
I’ve seen social media posts highlighting the difference between political violence and gun violence. This difference is inconsequential. Both are violent. Violence is the rotten fruit of hate. Hate is the opposite of Love. Hate is not of God. Let’s agree on this.
I’ve seen posts about how Charlie Kirk was known for inciting hate. Often in our political discourse, correction is mistaken for hate or intolerance.
If there is one standard for Truth and one source of Love (spoiler alert: there is!), then anything else that doesn’t meet that standard falls short. Love doesn’t mean acceptance of things that are not of God. Often, Love looks like a firm correction and redirection in what is good and right and true.
Take parenting, for instance. I know that God calls us to be honest and trustworthy (Proverbs 12:22). So, as a mom, when I catch one of my children in a lie or being dishonest, it is my job to correct them. I do this out of love for them. I know that raising them to be trustworthy, honest adults will bring them true happiness in the long run.
Do I expect my children to be perfect? No. But do I take my job seriously in guiding them towards the truth? Yes.
I’ve seen social media posts calling for stricter gun laws. Similar to pulling weeds, our efforts are fruitless unless we go for the root. The root of the problem is evil. Do I think our gun laws are perfect? No. Is there room for improvement? Absolutely. Am I pro-Second Amendment? Absolutely.
Let’s agree on this — the person who pulled the trigger and shot Charlie Kirk or Melissa and Mark Hortman or the innocent children praying at Mass are not the same as the people who rushed the cockpit on Flight 93, taking the terrorists head on, preventing them from hitting their target. They are not the same as the children who dove on top of younger students to protect them during the Annunciation shooting.
It’s the difference between cowardice and heroism. It’s the difference between hate and love. Between lies and truth. The difference between Satan and God.
So, if you find yourself feeling compelled to comment on a social media post that misses the point or one that is filled with hate and vitriol, respond with love. And remember this:
God is Love and God is Truth. When we respond in love with these two things in mind, we will always win.
Charlie did it. We can do it, too.