Over the past eight years, perhaps even ten, a sickness has grown in America, and now is reaching into the lives of persons and communities where we never expected to see it. This sickness is the threat of violence against those with whom we have political or ideological disagreements.
Last week Victoria Kilpatrick, the mayor of Sayreville, a medium size town here in New Jersey, said she would not run for re-election due to threats she and her family had received. Several months ago, a councilwoman was murdered in her car. This threat of violence is not just against elected officials; this week New York Times editorial writer David French wrote of threats against him and his family for his opinions.
Seven years ago in the midst of the 2016 election, I was cursed out in a threatening manner due to a bumper sticker. What is happening to us? The rhetoric of violence is overtaking our lives, and it is threatening our democracy. Those of us who oppose such violent speech and behavior cannot be cowed into sitting still, or the demagogues and their supporters will take over.
Prayer for the Day
Deliver us, O God, from demagogues and violence, we pray,
But we know that we must do more than cry out to you;
Unsure of where to turn or what to do about the rising tide of violence,
We are concerned and sometimes frightened, fearing for the future.
Grant us courage to speak out and help turn our country around,
So we can again feel confident that our democracy will prevail.
In the name of the One who is the example of courage,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
I have received via emails nasty, borderline threatening, gross, disgusting, and some of the most vicious, nastiest language that I'd ever even consider being spewed out of a human being. … That’s not what public service is supposed to be about.
- Victoria Kilpatrick, Mayor of Sayreville
I’ve faced more threats in the last few years than they [my friends] might experience in ten lifetimes. … but this I also know. Gun rights carry with them grave responsibilities. They do not liberate you to intimidate. They do not empower your hatred.
- David French, The New York Times, April 24, 2023
Give ear to my words, O Lord; give heed to my sighing.
Listen to the sound of my cry, my King and my God, for to you I pray.
Psalm 5:1-2