In his 1989 farewell address, Ronald Reagan famously described his vision of America as a shining city upon a hill. “In my mind, it was a tall proud city built on rocks stronger than oceans, wind-swept, God-blessed and teeming with people of all kinds living in harmony and peace.”

Send out your light and your truth; let them lead me; let them bring me to your holy hill.

Psalm 43:3

President Reagan’s words were adapted from “A Model of Christian Charity,” a 1630 sermon by John Winthrop, who first delivered it to immigrants arriving in America. It articulates the idea of “American Exceptionalism.” Its central premise was that the nation would survive only if its citizens were just, merciful, labored and suffered together, and worshiped the God of Israel. But, Winthrop warned, “if we shall deal falsely with our God in this work we have undertaken, and so cause Him to withdraw His present help from us, we shall be made a story and a by-word through the world.”

Today, pray that America may be that shining city – illuminated by His light and truth – and also that others may be drawn to Him by your testimony of His exceptional love.

Recommended Reading: Matthew 5:3-16