President Donald Trump addressed the 66th annual National Prayer Breakfast Thursday morning, emphasizing the everyday Americans who serve as reminders of God’s grace.

From the start, Trump’s 2018 address took a more somber tone than his 2017 address, in which he joked about The Celebrity Apprentice’s sinking ratings. Greeted by a standing ovation Thursday, Trump began by acknowledging guests in the audience, including Rep. Steve Scalise (R-La.).

Last June, Scalise was shot when a gunman attacked a group of Republicans practicing baseball in Alexandria, Va. “We are so glad to have you with us today,” Trump said. He added that Scalise’s presence was a reminder that “with God, all things are possible.” 

Trump went on to recognize the generosity and kindess displayed by Americans. He acknowledged service members, teachers, local law enforcement, hard-working parents and churches. Trump made special note of the citizens and first responders who rose to the occasion during last year’s hurricanes, wildfires and Las Vegas shooting.

“All we have to do is open our eyes and look around us and we can see God’s hand,” Trump said. 

Religious Freedom and Defeating ISIS

Trump also praised the importance of religious freedom. During the 2016 election, Trump promised to defend religious freedom, a major selling point for evangelicals. In the past year, his administration has made strides toward that end. Most recently, the U.S. Department of Health and Human services announced it will protect doctors from performing services that violate their conscience.

“When Americans are able to live by their convictions, to speak openly of their faith, and teach their children what is right, our families thrive, our communities flourish, and our nation can achieve anything at all,” Trump said Thursday. 

As he did in 2017, Trump drew attention to the plight of Christians, Jews, Muslims and other religious minorities “tortured” by ISIS. Last year, Trump promised “straighten it out.” Thursday, he highlighted the progress made. He noted that “almost 100 percent” of the territory in Iraq and Syria previously held by ISIS is now liberated. 

“Much work will always remain,” he said. “But we will never rest until that job is completely done, and we are really doing it like never before.” 

Glimpses of God’s Grace

Toward the end of his address, Trump highlighted the story of 9-year-old Sophia Marie Campa-Peters, who sat in the audience. Sophia suffers from a rare disease which has caused several strokes. Before undergoing brain surgery last month, Sophia asked for 10,000 prayers, including from the U.S. President and the Queen of England. Trump responded through Press Secretary Sarah Sanders, reminding Sophia that “all things are possible” with God.

On Thursday he relayed one touching anecdote about Sophia, when her doctors told her she couldn’t walk. “If you’re only going to tell me what I can’t do, then I don’t want to hear it,” she reportedly responded. The audience laughed.

Trump said Sophia “tried and succeeded,” and walks today. “Heroes” like her allow us to see a glimpse of God’s grace, he said. 

In closing, Trump called Americas to “resolve to find the best within ourselves,” and pray for an “extra measure” of strength and devotion.

Watch a video of the National Prayer Breakfast here. Trump’s address begins at 37:35.