As America commemorates its 250th anniversary, we look back at one of Billy Graham’s most memorable Independence Day messages. On July 4, 1970, the evangelist stood on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in the nation’s capital and called Americans to honor both their country and God during the Honor America Day celebration.

The event, organized by Billy Graham along with entertainer Bob Hope and J. Willard Marriott, founder of Marriott Corp., drew thousands of people to the nation’s capital. At a time when the Vietnam War had deeply divided the country, Honor America Day centered on prayer, worship and a message of hope from Billy Graham. In a letter outlining his vision for Honor America Day, the evangelist wrote, “This can become a time of corporate worship of Almighty God and renewal of patriotism toward our country.”

A call to honor God

Billy Graham opened his message by encouraging Americans to honor their nation by upholding the principles of liberty, protection and opportunity—while reminding the crowd that America’s greatest need will always be spiritual.

Graham warned that many try to fill what he called a “vacuum of the soul” with alcohol, drugs or sexual immorality instead of turning to God. He urged the crowd to repent, place their faith in Christ, and honor God above all else.

Echoing President Dwight D. Eisenhower during his first inauguration, Billy Graham pointed the crowd to 2 Chronicles 7:14, which says, “If My people, which are called by My name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.”

A lasting impact

Following the event, Graham received letters from people who were deeply encouraged by his message.

“Your message yesterday at the Honor America Day Service in Washington was the greatest! I have listened to the re-broadcast three times in the past two days—and I still feel the same way. Thanks for putting into words what so many loyal Americans believe and want to say,” one person wrote.

Another attendee wrote that he decided to make the trip to Washington after hearing about the event only the day before.

Billy Graham remained committed to proclaiming the Good News of Jesus Christ in all circumstances. Whether speaking to world leaders, stadium crowds or a nation celebrating Independence Day, his message remained the same: humanity’s deepest need is not political or cultural renewal, but spiritual renewal through faith in Jesus Christ.

To learn more about Billy Graham’s ministry, visit The Journey of Faith tour at the Billy Graham Library. Plan your next trip or see upcoming events.