Nearly three months after his assassination, Charlie Kirk’s legacy continues to inspire Americans, emphasizing the importance of gratitude, prayer, and disconnecting from technology. His last Thanksgiving message, delivered just weeks after the 2024 presidential election, remains a powerful call to action for many. Pastor JP De Gance of Communio, who has spoken extensively about Kirk’s impact, says the message is still highly relevant in 2025.
“I think Charlie’s message repeats those messages of Thanksgivings long ago when we were at different times, we’ve had setbacks as a country, we have had sufferings as a country, we had losses as a country and the message of Thanksgiving is that in all things we can be grateful,” De Gance said in an interview with Fox News Digital. “We can look to God above, and thank him both for all of our many blessings and then even, you know, it’s through our sufferings that we so frequently grow to become better men and women.”
Kirk, who was known for his unwavering faith and activism, described Thanksgiving as a uniquely American tradition that brings people of all faiths together to recognize the importance of gratitude. “I think it speaks very well to our nation that there is a day when we stop and say thank you,” he said in 2024. “He believed that ‘the ungrateful make the world worse’ and ‘the grateful make the world better.’” These words have continued to resonate with many across the country, particularly in the wake of his untimely death.
De Gance emphasized that gratitude is a foundational element of the Christian faith, reminding believers of their reliance on God. “Humility allows Christians to recognize the good things in their lives that emanate from God,” he added. “While Thanksgiving comes once a year for the nation, it should be an integral part of the daily Christian walk.” This perspective has encouraged many to refocus their Thanksgiving celebrations this year, prioritizing spiritual reflection over digital entertainment.
In his 2024 message, Kirk also urged people to disconnect from technology and reconnect with their families, a message De Gance echoed. “There’s so much noise from our technology and from the world around us, and I think it’s a great reminder, a great message and exhortation to disconnect from the devices and take a step back from the daily noise,” De Gance said. He encouraged people to take this opportunity to create meaningful connections with those around them, including those who may be isolated or unable to celebrate with family.
De Gance also spoke about the importance of reaching out to those who may not have a community to celebrate Thanksgiving with, suggesting that inviting others into one’s home can help combat the growing epidemic of loneliness. “We’ve got an epidemic of loneliness that is ravaging our country,” he said. “So we can ask ourselves, what are we doing to invite folks in who might not have someone to enjoy Thanksgiving with this season, or someone who might be far away from family and unable to travel, someone who might be a first responder and can’t get back to his family.” These words have galvanized many to take action, not only in their own homes but also in their communities.
Kirk’s legacy continues to inspire young people, particularly through his unwavering belief in God and his commitment to defending faith. “His belief in God and the way he defended faith has impacted scores of young people,” De Gance said. “For those looking to honor Kirk’s legacy this Thanksgiving, De Gance suggests they look to the late activist’s core messages for inspiration. He also advised young people to go to church on Thanksgiving weekend and for all to invite family and loved ones to join in prayers of gratitude. In his last Thanksgiving message, Kirk said, “The fundamental story of Thanksgiving is to understand that there is a God and that you are not above him.”
These words, delivered just weeks after the presidential election, continue to resonate with many, particularly those seeking guidance in a polarized political climate. As the nation approaches Thanksgiving, Kirk’s message serves as a reminder of the importance of gratitude, humility, and connection in a world increasingly dominated by technology and political division.