The Murder of George Tiller

Today, I wanted to address the George Tiller murder. Some people in the secular media, such as Jacob Sullum, seem not to understand that the pro-life movement is genuinely saddened and even angered by such vigilantism. But the outrage is real, and it crosses the political spectrum, making a hash of the pro-life/pro-choice distinction.

The murder of George Tiller was an atrocity and an affront to life. We do not arrogate to ourselves the right to execute our fellow citizens. Acceptance of such attitudes and actions would lead to endless civil war. Rather, we must forgive those around us, even if we think they are reprehensible. (And, if you listen to Father Groeschel's latest episode, it's easy to come to that conclusion about George Tiller's abortion clinic.)

We should all pray for an end to abortion, and for the souls of those who carry them out. We should not judge them, because even our Lord does not judge them (John 8:15). He tells us that all judgment has been handed over to him (John 5:22), but he has the awesome humility and patience until the proper time of judgment, when the wicked will be condemned. Until that time, there's still hope for the worst of us.

We should also pray for our own souls, that we may not be consumed by hatred and self-righteousness. We should pray that we will love even the wicked, as Jesus our Lord loved the prostitutes, tax collectors and thieves. He did not seek retribution. He did not stone the woman caught in adultery (John 8, again). He came not to condemn us, but save us (John 3:17). If we are to share in his salvific mission, his Life, neither must we condemn others. There is no excuse for the murder of George Tiller.