Saying Good-Bye to Charlie Kirk!

The Son of God goes forth to war,a kingly crown to gain;

We have witnessed what was likely the largest display of the Gospel in history. According to Andrew Kolvet's analysis, over 100 million people tuned in online to watch the memorial service for Charlie Kirk. The service carried on a Bill Graham crusade-like zeal. Dignitaries from the highest echelons of America and various parts of the world were present. Technocrats, bureaucrats, and the general public gathered to honor this generation's evangelist.

And make no mistake, this was a movingly evangelical service. The message of Christ and him crucified was articulated with remarkable ease; in some cases, there was a traditional altar call, in others, a call to action, and in others, a clear rejection of a theology of works, and in others, a recapitulation of the entire Nicene Creed, and yes, in others, a call to forgive those who trespass against us. Even to the unbelieving Elon Musk, there was a clear sense that this was more than an occasion to honor someone well-known; it was a war of cosmic powers. Lusk wrote: "Charlie was murdered by the Dark for showing people the Light."

Turek's description of Charlie's instant death, looking past him into eternity, as he watched his lifeless body in those moments following the shot, was compelling. Erika Kirk carried a balance of firmness and tenderness simultaneously. Hegseth spoke of Jesus as the only true King. There was no modernized or moderated paganism invested. Even Tulsi Gabbard spoke as if she knew Christ. Our Vice-President spoke about his renewed joy in discussing his faith since the death of Charlie Kirk. What can we expect from all this? That thousands will fill our churches this coming Sunday!

The inimitable martyr's hymn came to mind at various times throughout:

The Son of God goes forth to war,
a kingly crown to gain;
His blood-red banner streams afar!
Who follows in his train?
Who best can drink His cup of woe,
triumphant over pain,
who patient bears his cross below,
he follows in His train.

Charlie followed in his train. He drank that cup of woe that left a son and daughter without a father, and a wife without a lover and friend. Charlie has now triumphed over pain. He has fought the good fight. He finished his race. He has received a crown of gold, and we who cherished his labors follow in our earthly journey towards that same upward calling.

May the seeds planted yesterday flourish a thousand-fold; may that message echo in corridors in D.C.; may it be proclaimed with equal zeal on college campuses, may it be repeated with the fervor of the martyrs of old.

Charlie's Lord was exalted, and the whole world heard it. I don't think Charlie would have wanted anything more.