how to think about the ice shooting in Minneapolis

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Ephesians 6:12

Before any of us rush in to form a firm opinion about the situation in Minneapolis, let's take a step back, process our thoughts and emotions, and let the Word of God shape our thinking. It is far too easy to get caught up in unhelpful thinking "filters" (examples would be social media, your favorite news source, and the loudest voices around you). Here's my take on this as a pastor.

The loss of human life, under any circumstance, is never to be celebrated. Perhaps we're conditioned to think of winning and losing. There were plenty of people who cheered on the death of Charlie Kirk, as if their team had won. Regardless of one's opinion, there are two realities: spiritual and physical. Ephesians 6:12 makes it clear that we (humans) are not struggling against each other but against spiritual forces. The enemy's game plan is to "deceive the whole world" (Rev. 12:9). A redirection of the struggle away from our true opponent is a clever scheme that's undoubtedly taken hold in our world.

How should Christians respond?

1. Start with prayer. Directing your mind to the throne of the Father has a renewing effect. Romans 12:2 reminds us to "not conform to the pattern of the world, but be transformed by the renewing of the mind." It is then that we can "test and approve what God's will is." Judging this situation (and we're all going to do that) will only yield helpful conclusions if we first renew our minds.

2. Say helpful things (or say nothing at all). Your identity as a Christ follower and your commission (Mat. 28:18-20) to teach others to follow Jesus come before all else. We all have political opinions. Stop leading with them. I encourage everyone to vote and be a responsible citizen in our country! Many have given their lives so we can do so, and we honor them by exercising those freedoms. If you say "yes" to following Jesus, your commitment is to Him first (which I would argue makes us a better citizen, but that's for a different post). So do not take the bait of politicizing this situation with unhelpful rhetoric. One careless word could cause serious fallout (James 3:6). Instead, being prayed up, encourage people (Eph. 4:29).

Situations like these are opportunities to direct people to God. In no way do we wish these kinds of circumstances upon anyone! Instead, the most honorable thing to do for the families affected by this and toward God is to respond with Jesus' love. Do we not all need Christ more than anything else in this world?

Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Ephesians 5:15-16