It has been almost a month since Charlie Kirk was assassinated. In some ways it feels like much longer, but in many ways for many people the shock of his brutal, public murder is as raw as ever. Emotions continue to run high. Some are devastated. Others are angry. Still others are confused, wondering how to process this kind of event as a follower of Jesus.

Tragedies like this are jarring because they shake us awake to the inescapable reality that we live in a broken world. But they also force us to wrestle with big questions that do not have easy answers: Where is God in this? How should Christians respond? What does this moment mean for the Church?

The truth is, we’ve been here before. Throughout history, the Church has walked through moments of grief, political upheaval, persecution, and loss. And every time, God’s Word has remained our anchor.

And with that in mind, let me offer a reminder of some biblical truths to ground us and offer hope for a moment like this:

1. God is still sovereign.

We may not understand why something happened, but that doesn’t mean God has stepped off the throne. Psalm 46 reminds us, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way.” Our hope is not built on political figures, cultural stability, or even the safety of our nation. Our hope is in Christ alone.

2. Our response matters.

When the disciples wanted to call down fire from heaven on their enemies, Jesus rebuked them (Luke 9:54–55). When Peter drew his sword in the garden, Jesus told him to put it away (John 18:11). It’s ok to be angry when you see evil and injustice in the world. The right kind of anger can even be a holy response. So in no way am I suggesting that we should ignore justice. Scripture is clear that God cares deeply about justice (Micah 6:8). But it does mean our first posture must not be vengeance or rage. Romans 12 tells us, “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”

3. Grieve with hope.

It is right to grieve. We should lament the loss of life, mourn with and for Charlie’s family, and acknowledge the deep pain this event causes for so many people. But Paul tells us we “do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope” (1 Thessalonians 4:13). Because of Jesus’ death and resurrection, we know the story doesn’t end in death, despair, or violence. Our story ends in resurrection, restoration, and peace. And because of Charlie’s faith, I believe September 10th was his best day because He is in the presence of Jesus.

4. Keep our eyes on the Kingdom.

One of the dangers in a moment like this is to confuse the Kingdom of God with the kingdoms of this world. While we may feel passionately about politics, Jesus was clear: “My Kingdom is not of this world” (John 18:36). This doesn’t mean we withdraw from culture or disengage from important conversations. But it does mean we refuse to let earthly allegiances eclipse our primary citizenship in heaven (Philippians 3:20).

5. Live as a light.

The world is watching how Christians will respond. Will we add to the noise, the anger, the conspiracy theories, and the division? Or will we choose to embody the way of Jesus: truth and grace, conviction and compassion, boldness and humility? Jesus said, “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).

Final Word

This is a sobering moment for the Church in America. But it is also an opportunity. An opportunity to show the world that our faith is not built on political leaders, cultural movements, or human strength. We don’t put our trust in “chariots and horses” (Psalm 20:7). Our faith is built on Jesus Christ, the solid rock who cannot be shaken.

And it’s important, in these moments, that we do our best to live like we believe this is true. The world is watching and many are taking their cues in this moment from people of faith. We have an opportunity to point people to Jesus through our actions and reactions, our words, our attitudes, and how we treat each other.

So grieve. Pray. Comfort and encourage one another. And remember that in every tragedy, God is still at work, drawing people to Himself and reminding us that the we have a hope to cling to that will never fade.

Even here. Even now.