On September 10th, conservative activist Charlie Kirk was assassinated. He was known for his creation and leadership of Turning Point USA, a grassroots campus focused organization aimed at providing an alternative message to our Nation’s young adults- a message that undoubtedly contributed to a surge in young voters choosing President Trump in the 2024 election. 

But he was also known for carrying out his message in a way dedicated to the American principles of free speech and respectful debate. Kirk would frequently travel college campuses, sit under a small tent with a sign reading “Prove Me Wrong”, and encourage young Americans with differing views to have a conversation and share their opinion. Those conversations would typically end with a handshake- a sign that, despite disagreeing, Americans could sit down and debate without hostility. 

But what was most important was neither of these things. Ultimately, Charlie Kirk was a Christian, a husband, and a father. There is a wife who has lost her husband and two young children who have lost their father. In this terrible moment, Americans understandably feel a sense of anger and grief. But we should also feel a sense of hope. Just four days before his death, Kirk posted on X, “Jesus defeated death so you can live”. Charlie Kirk spent his all too short life encouraging young people across the country to get married, have children, and, most importantly, love the Lord. His time on this Earth has passed, but let us take hope in knowing he has heard the words, “Well done, my good and faithful servant”.