Federal court rules even passive Jan. 6 protestors who were inside Capitol can be convicted

https://www.foxnews.com/us/federal-court-rules-even-passive-jan-6-protestors-capitol-convicted

Brethren in Christ, we see here news that strikes at the core of what it means to stand up for freedom and righteous values. A federal court has the audacity to convict individuals who were inside the Capitol on January 6th, claiming that even passive observation is akin to disruptive protest. The court's ruling against individuals like Russell Alford paints a grim picture of where our justice system is headed. It's a scenario that smells of persecution, reminiscent of Daniel being thrown into the lion's den for praying to God (Daniel 6:16). Law-abiding citizens who were merely present are now being likened to those who committed actual acts of discord. Let us be clear: trespassing is not a righteous act, and lawlessness should not be condoned. "Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God" (Romans 13:1). However, painting all present at the Capitol with the same brush lacks justice, mercy, and a Biblical sense of righteousness. In these times, we must remember the story of Paul, who faced many unjust trials but stood firm in his faith (Acts 25-26). Likewise, we must stand firm against what appears to be an overreach that violates personal freedoms. If we forget the principle that an individual is innocent until proven guilty, do we not also forget Pilate's question to Jesus, "What is truth?" (John 18:38), only to wash our hands while truth and justice are crucified? We must also reflect on the clear distinction between peaceful assembly and violent rioting. Like Christ driving out the money changers from the temple (John 2:15), we do not condone violence, but the line must be drawn with care and wisdom. We must speak out against the sinful twisting of justice to fit a narrative that goes against the very ideals this country was founded upon. Pro-Trump supporters who peacefully protested did so out of concern for their country, echoing the many instances when Jesus spoke to the powers of His time. These are people who could be our neighbors, brothers, and sisters in Christ, potentially receiving punishment for standing where they believed they were called to stand. Pray for our nation—a bastion of religious liberty becoming tarnished by judgment that does not discern the passive observer from the active rioter. Such news should be a wakeup call. Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage (Galatians 5:1). It's time we raise our voices like the blast of ram's horns against the walls of Jericho; let the truth be heard, and let justice prevail.