I recently gave a somewhat pessimistic assessment of America’s fortunes, based on the signs of judgment I can see on the land. That is, I took a steady look at the cultural movements, particularly in regard to gender, which in a Biblical worldview would indicate a removal of God’s hand of blessing. God withdraws His protective restraint, come what may. And when that happens, the “what may” that comes is chaos.
But a recent event has given me pause. Its explosive arrival was as unexpected as it was timely. And it occurred at, of all places, a funeral. An assassin shot Charlie Kirk, swiftly bringing his life, along with his influential work, to a bloody end. At the enormous televised and re-broadcast memorial service, Erika Kirk, the slain man’s widow, recognized the event as an opportunity to further their mission. We thus witnessed a possible turning point for the country in Erika Kirk’s oration.
I find many things to praise about this extraordinary speech: Her simple and affectionate praise of her husband’s greatness; her rather powerful observation that, despite American outrage, there have been no riots nor a shred of violence in response to her husband’s murder; her attractive recommendation of Jesus Christ as a foundation for life; how she took up her husband’s torch in announcing her acceptance of the role of CEO of the Turning Point, USA corporation; or her breathtaking forgiveness of her husband’s killer.
But her boldest utterance was found in her exposition of how gender works in relationship. She saw the audience she was suddenly given as a responsibility to which she should rise. And she did. When she turned to speak about her family, ‘beautiful’ as she unabashedly called it, she opened up to display a strong intergendered union. She challenged men to a true masculinity of Christ-like leading. Likewise, she exhorted women to the great value of giving rest and the supreme creational gift of life-giving motherhood. She explained and then used words from the Bible like ‘Head’ and ‘Help.’ It was an unflinching pronouncement of what the Bible says makes marriages thrive.
Last year, I highlighted a few of proclaimers that Proverb 8-9’s Woman Wisdom has sent out on the American Scene. Now, listening to Erica’ eulogy, it again felt to me like Proverbs 8 coming to life:
1 Does not wisdom call? Does not understanding raise her voice? 2 On the heights beside the way, at the crossroads she takes her stand; 3 beside the gates in front of the town, at the entrance of the portals she cries aloud.
This unhesitating affirmation of gender asymmetries is sure to puzzle many people. They will wonder what on earth they are listening to. The message will then transform some and harden others (Isaiah 55:11). Some will deride it. Others will examine their own lives in light of it. Nearly 100,000 people were there at State Farm Stadium for that speech, including just about all of the U.S. presidential cabinet. You see this kind of scale for heads of state, but this was one of the largest public gatherings ever held for a private citizen. More than 20 million people streamed it. Many millions more have since watched it. The response will be telling for where America is. Hearts that can receive such a message are ones who have turned in thankfulness to the Creator. If many can, it will mean restraint has returned, a lifting of judgment.
Perhaps there is hope for America, a Zerubabel, if this truly is a turning point.