By Kayla DeKraker
As the country continues to feel the effects of Charlie Kirk’s assassination last month, President Donald Trump honored the Christian political activist by posthumously awarding him the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the country’s highest civilian honor.
At an intimate White House gathering on Oct. 14, what would have been Kirk’s 32nd birthday, the President spoke about the Turning Point USA founder’s incredible life and contributions.
“Today we’re here to honor and remember a fearless champion of liberty and a beloved leader who galvanized the next generation like no one I’ve ever seen before,” President Trump said. “An American patriot of deepest conviction, of the finest quality and highest caliber — the late, great Charlie Kirk.”
Kirk’s widow, Erika Kirk, accepted the medal on her husband’s behalf.
“This is not a ceremony, this is a commissioning,” she said. “And my message is simple. I want you to be the embodiment of this medal…I want you to free yourself from fear. I want you to stand courageously in the truth. Listen for the small, still voice of God, and remember that while freedom is inherited in this country, each of us must be intentional stewards every single day.”
Related: Charlie Kirk’s Death Draws People Back to Church, Including This Bestselling Author
Since Kirk’s death, America has seen an outpouring of interest in faith in what has been dubbed the “Charlie Kirk Effect.”
“His death has sparked what’s being called the Charlie Kirk effect, a surge of young adults testifying that Charlie’s courage in standing up for his faith has them going back to church for the first time in years,” CBN’s David Brody reported. “People that didn’t even know Charlie Kirk were moved by this. And you wonder why that was exactly. Well, look, I think we’re in a spiritual battle, and I think people are searching for the truth. And I think Charlie Kirk was speaking about things of God.”
Christian artists including Matthew West are even releasing songs in honor of Kirk.
Last week, West released “Be Close,” inspired by Psalm 34:18: “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
“‘Be Close’ is out now. I hope this song reminds you in every difficult season that the Lord is near. Psalm 34:18,” he posted on Instagram alongside a clip of the song.
As 1 Corinthians 15:58 reminds us, “Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.”
Although the loss of Kirk has been devastating, his message continues to carry on as we all strive to serve God and share the gospel with others.
Read Next: Church Attendance Skyrockets After Charlie Kirk’s Murder
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