On July 13, 2024, Mr. T. M. Crooks attempted to assassinate Mr. D. J. Trump, narrowly missing by mere millimetres. Firstly, our thoughts and prayers are with Mr. Trump and his family. Additionally, we extend our prayers to the victims and their families who were injured or killed in the incident.
This event is a striking example of providence. At the critical moment of the shooting, Mr. Trump turned his head to look at the crowd. Had this not occurred at precisely that moment, we would be discussing a successful assassination, not an attempt.
As Paul writes, “From one man he has made every nationality to live over the whole earth and has determined their appointed times and the boundaries of where they live. He did this so that they might seek God, and perhaps they might reach out and find him, though he is not far from each one of us. For in him we live and move and have our being…” This sovereign event is undeniably a watershed moment that will alter the course of America. What this change might look like is uncertain, but we should pray that it prompts America to reconsider its political approach.
The author of Hebrews reminds us, “The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact expression of his nature, sustaining all things by his powerful word.” Nothing in this world happens without the ordination and glorification of Christ our King.
It is important to recognise that Mr. Trump is not the main character in this story—God is. Why was he shot? While we understand the human perspective—that the assailant was likely mentally ill and influenced by certain rhetoric—we do not know the divine perspective. We trust that God will use this event to glorify Himself. We are certain that God works all things for the good of those who believe.
In response to this assassination attempt, we should:
- Thank God for Mr. Trump’s deliverance from this evil.
- Pray that this event gives Mr. Trump a new perspective on life and leads him to saving faith in Christ.
- Pray that Mr. Trump becomes thankful for his deliverance and that someone close to him can share the full Gospel with him.
It is also crucial not to engage in a blame game. While rhetoric may have played a role, the ultimate responsibility lies with Mr. Crooks, who chose to buy the gun, climb the barn, and pull the trigger.
Moreover, we should study politics in our spare time. Understanding political issues deeply can mitigate anger. Although I am a conservative authoritarian, or more accurately, a Christian Nationalist, I respect and sympathise with Labour supporters despite our political differences. Politics, when studied deeply and accurately, reveals that liberals also seek the best for Aotearoa; we simply disagree on the pathway. We can disagree on politics but still show mutual respect.
Kiwis, cherish your families and be thankful that such violence is not our way. If you harbour political anger, decompress. Stop calling for revolution and the overthrow of governments. We need to moderate our political discourse to prevent violence from reaching our own soil. God bless you all, God bless Aotearoa, and God bless the United States of America.