So many Christians, so full of vitriol for our Prime Minister. So quick to throw stones and post things intended to alarm and inflame. So few mentions of praying for him at a time of crisis. So little grace. And I’m left wondering, how do hurtful, vengeful, distasteful words and memes aid a credible, public witness.

Should the Prime Minister have done more to address anti-Semitism over recent years. Yes, as he has admitted. Would he do things differently if he had the time over again. Yes. Are there lessons to be learnt for all levels of government in Australia – for sure! But is this matter as simple as some [from the comfort of their keyboard, outside of elected office] seem to suggest. Far from it. That’s a point former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull made this week.

Yes there is a time for accountability and if you seek high office, constant review and criticism come with the territory. But at a time when our nation’s soul is grieving, some Christian commentary over the past week has stooped lower than the Murdoch machine.

I know in posting these comments, a barrage of criticism will likely follow. And I am going to choose to not enter into any ping pong debate. But there are many Christian leaders in our country who don’t blame our Prime Minister for an evil act perpetrated by two hateful extremists. And there are many Christian leaders praying for him. We know he’s far from perfect. We see his flaws. But we respect his service, his heart and the massive task before him.

I have written to the PM this week to let him know that he is in my prayers – as well as encouraging him and the Federal Government to do more to address extremism in all its forms in Australia. Will my small prayers make much of a difference in the big picture. No. But I think that prayer and respectful advocacy is far better than hurling stones of abuse and cynicism. I just don’t see that’s the Jesus way.