Two light squeezes on the trigger.
Two lead bullets from the barrel.
One dead brother on the ground.
Now, you stand before your brother’s killer in a courtroom that has just sentenced him to ten years in prison. Given the opportunity, what would you say to the murderer?
Eighteen-year-old Brant Jean experienced that moment as he locked eyes with Amber Guyger, the Dallas police officer who took the life of his older brother on September 6, 2018. At the sentencing, Brant seized a moment to address his brother's killer.
What would you have said? Angry words? Raging words? No one could blame you.
But looking straight at Amber Guyger, this is what Brant Jean told the killer in quiet, measured tones:
“I speak for myself. I forgive you. And I know if you go to God and ask, He will forgive you…I love you just like anyone else. I'm not gonna say I hope you rot and die just like my brother. I personally want the best for you. I wasn’t gonna say this in front of my family or anyone. But I don’t even want you to go to jail. I want the best for you. The best thing would be to give your life to Christ. I think giving your life to Christ, that would be the best thing that Botham would want. Again, I love you as a person. And I don’t wish anything bad for you.”
Brant then made a request of Judge Tammy Kemp. “I don't know if this even possible, but could I give her a hug, please? Please?”
The judge gave her approval, and Brant Jean wrapped his arms around Amber Guyger, who wept. Loudly.
Nor were her tears the only ones in that courtroom.
There are a whole lot of folks saying a whole lot of things about racial reconciliation these days. But what Brandt said with his hug and his forgiveness was more than profound. It was like Jesus Himself.
“For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”
–Matthew 6:14,15