Anti-abortionists scare me. Sure, most of them are fairly harmless, but their zeal and conviction often invite violent individuals into their ranks. It’s inevitable that certain people, who feel their actions are justified by their God, will commit violent acts against doctors and nurses who provide this medical service. Dr. George Tiller was shot and killed today during church, and although the details of the investigation is sketchy, it’s clear the motivation behind the murder is Tiller’s work at his clinic.

This isn’t the first time he’s been targeted. Back in 1986 the clinic was bombed, although luckily no one was hurt. No one was ever arrested for the crime.

The anti-abortion group ‘Operation Rescue’ stated on their website that they:

worked for years through peaceful, legal means, and through the proper channels to see him brought to justice. We denounce vigilantism and the cowardly act that took place this morning. We pray for Mr. Tiller’s family that they will find comfort and healing that can only be found in Jesus Christ.

I don’t want to suggest that the group played a direct role in the murder since all the facts haven’t yet come to light. Consider, however, the group was previously based in California before moving to Kansas, specifically to target Tiller. Their slogan, “If you believe abortion is murder, act like it’s murder” is an invitation to violence. The organization has been working for years to dismantle, harass, and interfere with Tiller’s clinic.

What are we supposed to think when something like this happens? The organization is playing damage control and trying desperately to distance themselves from this incident, but I wouldn’t be surprised to find that the murderers were at least in some way affiliated with them. What else can you expect? These guys take abortion very seriously, and as far as they are concerned, it’s murder. We can’t be surprised when religiously motivated simpletons use violence to get their way. Anyone who thinks anti-abortion groups use only peaceful methods are living in a fantasy land.