The problem has to do with expressing a Christian cultural identity for American society collectively. Secular liberals and non-Christians oppose this and many Christians have submitted to them. Is "America" Christian? Obviously most Americans have some connection with Christian denominations or ideas, but large numbers vote for liberal and secularist policies which create the image of a godless society. Now, a cultish Islam has raised its specter as a threat to America. People try to pray and attend public prayer and memorial services. But probably within months the Dems will be right back at our throats pushing for yet more godless liberalism. Is "America" a Christian civilization or a post-Christian civilization?
I think the question turns on whether America's people who claim the Christian name choose to live as Christians or not. It may be that the attack will serve as a chastisement to recall us to faith. It is therefore incumbent upon Christians in this time to live as Christians, to pray, to fast, to give alms, to proclaim the Gospel.
On the one hand, the Gospel is a message of peace. On the other, it is not peace as the world gives it. "I came not to bring peace, but to bring a sword," Christ told his disciples, who also gave them His peace. The defense of innocents is the only Christian cause for war, but this is our cause now. Not vengance.
I still desire our initial stroke in this war to be impressive, to inspire terror in the terrorists and those who might support them, but I do not wish for the death of innocents at our hands.
I would flesh out my suggestion of demanding surrender and if surrender is refused, the sending out of non-combattants (by multiple media: radio, leaflet, loudspeaker on drone aircraft) before devastating an objective (fuel-air weapons would suffice, but nuclear weapons have more terror effect). Those who surrender should be well-fed, have their medical problems attended to, and be treated with great kindness.