As the United States withdraws from Afghanistan we are witnessing scenes of chaos and violence as the Taliban regains control of the country. As of this recording tens of thousands of Americans and Afghan allies remain in Afghanistan, with decreasing hopes for an evacuation. Additionally, it feels like all of the peace and stability, and the increase in the quality of life for Afghans over the last two decades has been erased in a week. On this episode of All Things we’re trying to process what we’re seeing through a Biblical lens. We seek to understand some of the history and politics behind the military withdrawal, as well as the far reaching and dire consequences that are playing out as a result. We remember what’s true and very good about our presence in Afghanistan over the past 20 years. So many members of the military community, as well as members of the missions community, feel like all is lost. But that is not true. Our efforts were not in vain, as human souls are eternal, and so much was invested in the lives and souls in Afghanistan that can never be lost or taken away. Finally, we conclude this episode by talking about how we might think rightly, pray actively, and respond ourselves to this global crisis.

The following resources were used in compiling this episode:

Internal State Department Cable Warned of Kabul Collapse - Wall Street Journal

When ‘Never Again’ Becomes ‘Again and Again’ - The Dispatch

Waiting in Kabul - World, Mindy Belz

American Leaders Made Defeat in Afghanistan Inevitable - TIME

Understanding What’s Happening in Afghanistan with Mindy Belz - Breakpoint

Why the U.S. should provide Priority 2 refugee status for Afghans fleeing persecution - ERLC

‘Please Don’t Leave Us Behind. We Will Be Great Americans.’ - The Bulwark

World Relief Responds

US military deaths from Afghanistan conflict: over 2,300 nationally and 38 Coloradans - Fox 31 News

Timeline of U.S. Withdrawal from Afghanistan - Factcheck.org

Here's the Best Thing the U.S. Has Done in Afghanistan - The Atlantic

Americans provided "life-changing" educational opportunities in Afghanistan. But the Taliban takeover could end that. - CBS News

National Humiliation and Humanitarian Disaster: Peril Ensues as Taliban Takes Over Afghanistan--to America’s Shame and Grave Danger of Her Allies - Al Mohler

Weep With Those Who Weep: How to pray for Afghanistan and the Afghan people - Pioneers