As the United States approaches her 250th anniversary in 2026, followers of Christ have a significant opportunity to respond with gratitude and faithful action.

We have many reasons to be thankful. First, our nation’s founding recognized that human rights ultimately come from God. The Declaration of Independence affirms that people are “endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights.”

Secondly, the United States has historically protected religious freedom. The First Amendment guarantees that the government cannot establish a national religion or prohibit the free exercise of faith. Because of this protection, Christians in America have been able to worship, preach, build churches, send missionaries, and share the Gospel without the persecution seen in many parts of the world.

The Bible encourages and commands us to pray for our nation and her leaders. In 1 Timothy 2, believers are instructed to pray for governing authorities so that people may live peaceful and godly lives (v. 1–2). Churches and individuals have been given an opportunity through this celebration to pray for wisdom, justice, unity, and moral renewal across the country.

Furthermore, we should renew our commitment to being the salt of the earth and the light of the world (Matthew 5:13–16). The best way to bring honor to our nation is by living out Christian virtues — integrity, compassion, justice, and truth — as a witness to the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

In this way, the 250th anniversary can become, not only a patriotic celebration, but also a spiritual moment of gratitude, repentance, prayer, and renewed mission.