America’s valiant spirit echoes across oceans, but freedom isn’t always safe for those determined to spread its promise. Pastor Josh Sullivan, a Tennessean, faced the harsh realities of this truth last week when he was forcibly kidnapped by armed men during a sermon in South Africa. Sullivan is not just another statistic in the alarming rise of crime; he’s a symbol of unwavering faith and American resilience that transcends boundaries. This abduction is more than a crime—it’s an assault on the values we hold dear, and it’s time we answer with resolute strength and commitment.

Sullivan’s story is one of courage and devotion, which is why his capture resonates so profoundly. As reported, four armed assailants stormed the Fellowship Baptist Church during a sermon, ultimately taking Sullivan at gunpoint. His wife, Meagan, and their six children bore witness to this heinous act. This is the human side of missionary work—a testament to the sacrifices made by individuals driven by faith and the desire to share American values of freedom and belief with the world.

In an era where international kidnappings are on the rise—17,000 reported in South Africa alone during the last fiscal year—Pastor Sullivan’s abduction is a stark reminder that the world is filled with regions where America’s promise of liberty is met with hostility. Under these dire circumstances, it’s important to understand how vital it is that we stand firm in supporting our citizens abroad. As former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill once said, “An appeaser is one who feeds a crocodile, hoping it will eat him last.” Standing idle or soft-pedaling such incidents only invites more aggression.

Conservatives, it’s time to act. We must insist that our government prioritize the safety and security of Americans overseas as they navigate foreign lands. The United States Department of State stated that there is no “greater priority than the safety and security of U.S. citizens abroad,” and we must hold them accountable to this promise. Furthermore, it’s essential that the U.S. officials work in concert with international agencies, like South Africa’s Hawks, a specialized unit dealing with serious crimes, to expedite Sullivan’s safe return.

It’s also paramount that conservative voices nationwide rally in solidarity and support for Pastor Sullivan’s family. A call for prayers resonates deeply—their faith is a source of strength, capturing the essence of Proverbs 27:17: “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” Our outcry should urge comprehensive diplomatic efforts that deter future attempts against American citizens, to ensure missions of good faith don’t falter under the shadow of fear. Emphasizing robust foreign policies is no mere suggestion; it is an assertion of our national strength and integrity.

Moreover, this incident is a clarion call to action for conservatives to remind our leaders globally that America is steadfast in its convictions—an unwavering sentinel for liberty and justice anywhere under the stars and stripes. As President Reagan articulately expressed, “We maintain the peace through our strength; weakness only invites aggression.”

As we reflect on Sullivan’s courageous mission, let us embrace a collective resolve. His unwavering dedication to the Xhosa-speaking people in South Africa isn’t a mere tale of missionary work but a resonant echo of American determination and goodwill. His story is a compelling reminder of who we are as a nation—undaunted and resolute, steeled by our convictions and guided by our faith. Let us rally in support and prayer for his freedom, honoring his sacrifice with actions that speak louder than words, demonstrating America’s unwavering commitment to grace, grit, and glory.