Rare is the moment when I struggle to find words. It’s not often that I actively avoid engaging in dialogue about just about anything. I’m not one to shy away from difficult discussions or unpopular truths. But, in this cultural moment, I am both struggling to find the words and have a deep desire to avoid addressing the issues. The continued stream of school shootings coupled with the assassinations of people on both sides of the political aisle have stirred up concern and consternation in our hearts and minds. Lines have been drawn. Divisions have deepened. And, as is often the case in the internet age, anything you say can and will be used against you in the court of public opinion. But, a thoughtful conversation with a concerned neighbor has provided me with questions worth consideration and an answer to inform appropriate action.
My neighbor, like most of us, is feeling some big feelings. In specific, he is struggling with feelings of anger over the assassination of Charlie Kirk and a desire to retaliate in kind. He asked two relevant questions: Is it wrong to feel angry about what was done and at what point is it necessary to take a stand and return fire?
“An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth” makes logical sense to us, but it fails to meet the standard Jesus set in both word and deed.
First, not only is it not wrong to be angry at the taking of a life, I would argue it is both natural and appropriate. Murder is a clear deviation from God’s design for humanity; it should stir indignation in our souls. Being angry isn’t, in and of itself, an issue. In Ephesians 4:26-27, it reads, “In your anger do not sin:’ Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold.” It is OK to feel our feelings. What we have to be wary of is what actions we allow our anger to inspire.
Second, while the desire for retaliation and retribution is also natural, it is NOT right. “An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth” makes logical sense to us, but it fails to meet the standard Jesus set in both word and deed. In Matthew 5:43-45, Jesus said, “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven.” Jesus turns the traditional understanding upside down. We may feel angry and indignant over the violence we see and experience in the world, but the proper response is not retaliation; it is love. We are called, and I would argue commanded, by Christ to offer the same compassionate grace that God continually offers us.
Love and forgiveness reveals the difference Christ has made in our lives and allows us to extend His life-giving grace to a desperate and dying world.
Jesus modeled how far this love is meant to go in his own action and attitudes towards those who did Him the ultimate violence. Jesus wasn’t just assassinated; He was executed. In Luke 23:34, we read that while they were in the act of killing Him, Jesus prayed, “Father, forgive them…” He didn’t return evil for evil, but instead He offered the ultimate blessing. It’s a lesson both Peter and Paul later articulated. In 1 Peter 3:9-11, Peter writes, “Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing. For, ‘Whoever would love life and see good days must keep their tongue from evil and their lips from deceitful speech. They must turn from evil and do good; they must seek peace and pursue it.” And, in Romans 12:17-18, Paul writes, “Do not repay anyone evil for evil… If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
In the face of such senseless violence (I would submit that most violence is, at its core, senseless), it is tempting for us to take sides, to rally our tribe, in whatever form that may come, and prepare for war. But responding to violence with violence changes nothing; it simply increases the injury. Love and forgiveness, however, reveals the difference Christ has made in our lives and allows us to extend His life-giving grace to a desperate and dying world. So, though our anger may burn, let us not give the devil a foothold. Rather, may we stand firm in faith and love boldly with the compassionate grace the Savior shows us.
Another incredible article, Jeremy. The church (and the world) so needs to hear these things. I encourage you to still continue to fight the good fight with your gift of words. It speaks truth. It blesses people. Thank you.
Thank you for these words. This is a very hard time to be a pastor and I pray for you and all pastors to speak and write wisely in these days. Bless you.
Well stated, compassion, love and forgiveness Gods most important lessons.