The assassination of an honest, brave, and faithful man named Charlie Kirk created a shockwave across the world. And as a Christian-Filipino, ‘di ko mapigilang malungkot at the same time ay ma-encourage sa buhay ni Charlie. He was like John the Baptist, spoke with authority and passion for the truth he believed and proclaimed. Tulad ni John the Baptist, John was killed for being courageous, compassionate for the lost, and committed to Jesus.
In the Gospel according to Mark 6:14-32, makikita natin ang retelling kung paano pinapatay ni king Herod si John na pakana ng kanyang asawang si Herodias. Galit si Herodias kay John at gusto niyang mamatay ito because John told king Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife.” Well, walang ‘di kayang gawin ang isang hari, at kasama na dun ang gawing asawa ang sino mang babaeng magustuhan niya.
John is courageous and caring enough to tell the truth in the face of king Herod, whatever the cost. What is wrong is wrong, and what is sin is sin. Pero hindi ito nagustuhan ni Herodias (v.19). Kaya naman nung nagkaroon siya ng chance to kill John, she took it through the king’s order (vv.22-28). Pabibo kasi si king Herod eh kaya nalinlang ng wicked na asawa. Jesus never doubted John’s commitment to Him. Kinilala ni Jesus ang katapatan ni John sa Kanya as His forerunner preparing His way, “This is the one about whom it is written: ‘I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way before you.’ “Truly I tell you, among those born of women there has not risen anyone greater than John the Baptist!” (Mt.11:10-11).
In our own generation, Charlie Kirk did the same, no matter the cost. His courage for the truth is inspiring to many people, including me. Sa kanyang mga campus tour, walang takot niyang pinahahayag ang truth about gender, biblical family values, the gospel, and love for his nation. No holds barred or all-out kung tawagin.
Charlie’s courage for truth-telling is not rooted in the desire to be famous, but in deep compassion for the lost and deceived. Charlie reflected the heart of Jesus to his audience, especially to those who disagree with him. Binibigyan pa niya ng microphone and a chance to engage and reason with him in a debate or casual Q&A setup. I am amazed at how graciously and boldly he communicates his ideas and faith convictions even to those who mock, reject, and insult him. Hindi siya nawalan ng compassion. He forgives. He emulates Jesus.
And lastly, Charlie’s commitment to Jesus is an encouragement to me. At a young age (18), he was able to build an organization (TurningPointUSA) that inspires many young people to help their nation be better and became one of the most influential Christians who faithfully declares the gospel of Jesus on college campuses and on his online platform (theCharlieKirkShow).
What’s his secret? There’s no secret to him; his faith in Jesus is the most important thing and person in his life. Jesus is central in all he does. It is not the duration of his life that matters, but the donation of his life to us and to the world that makes his life meaningful, only because of Jesus. At ngayon, nasa piling na siya ng Panginoong Jesus. May the Lord bless his wife, children, and loved ones with comfort, peace, and strength in this difficult moment ng buhay nila. All thanks and glory to God for showing your grace through him. We will continue your advocacy sa paraan ni iniatang sa amin ng Panginoong Jesus kapatid. Thanks, Charlie Kirk.