I have always admired Billy Graham. For so many reasons. Each reason as rich in meaning as his life. And so, last night, after my husband went to bed, I stayed up.
I had to know what this man, who had spoken for so many years to the masses, still felt compelled to say to America. To each one of us.
In the stillness of the night, I sat watching on my computer. It did not take long before the tears began to roll.
I felt such a reverence. A deep respect for this giant of a man. Here he was, 95 years of age, frail yet strong, sharing his heart with me. I felt like he had invited me into his humble home and was sharing with me alone. His soft tone could not hide how deeply he felt for each that might still be lost.
This man who….
- has preached for years to the masses
- has been counselor and confidante to presidents and world leaders
- has written books
- has brought the gospel like no other in my lifetime
still felt compelled to share the gospel so that perhaps just one more lost soul would come to know Jesus.
I have known Jesus now for years and hearing Billy Graham present Christ still made me cry. This man presents truth in a way that moved me to my core. To see the faithful manner in which he has continued to reach out and share Christ is something that still astounds me.
Every word spoken was profound. But two thoughts will probably stay with me forever. Well, I know they will as they are now written down in the back of my Bible 🙂
1. “The Cross is offensive because it confronts people. Even so, it’s a confrontation that all of us must face.”
2. “Many will react to this message, but it is the truth. And with all my heart, I want to leave you with the truth. He loves you.”
The program ended with Billy Graham sitting with his faithful dog looking out over the hills near his home. I felt such a sadness knowing that never again will there be a voice as well recognized as this man’s. And none will ever be able to bring the truth in the same manner as he has done.
I encourage you to hear his message.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bba2Dqaw6SI&w=560&h=315]
What an excellent post!. I tweeted those two quotes as well as a link to your blog post. Thank you,
Blessings,
Janis http://www.janiscox.com
Janis – Thank you so much, it is very much appreciated. The program was such a blessing.
I agree. I pray that many will hear the Good News and respond by following Christ. That’s the only way for revival to come to us as individuals and as a nation. What irony that Dr. Graham used HIS 95th birthday to remind US of the greatest gift of all. May we all use our days for his glory and to share Him with others.
Thank you for sharing with me. You made a wonderful point on Dr. Graham using his 95th birthday to remind us. He reminded us of the greatest gift & truly Who he held in highest esteem. Thank you for stopping here!
Thanks for your post. He spoke of a great awakening for our nation. I agree with you that it will come through individuals receiving Christ. I also pray that many will see the program. I especially liked the testimonies of the young man and young woman. When people are hopeless there is only One Who brings hope….JESUS CHRIST.
Marilyn Saxon
South Carolina
Mare, both testimonies were very powerful! So glad that you were able to watch it!
Love,
Jo
Joanne,
I was busy around the house last night while this was on so I DVR’d it to watch later. Later was just a few moments ago and like you, I was just crying and crying. What a powerful presentation! I am so blessed to have seen it and I felt the presence of the Lord. I, too want to share those quotes on my facebook status. Thank you so much for posting this.
Blessings,
Debby
Debby,
I am wondering if anyone will be able to watch this presentation without being moved. Truly. Thank you for sharing!
Blessings,
Joanne
Thank you for sharing here, Debby. I do think this program will not only reach many but live on for years to come.
Love that man, too, Joanne. There is something about his presence that carries such a weight and also such a sense of freedom.
Lori, it is amazing to me how many feel the same way as us about Dr. Graham. His is truly an admirable life!
Thank you, Jo, for this timely post.
I watched Reverend Billy Graham on TV many times growing up. He focused always on Jesus Christ and let the Word of God and the Holy do the work. He always moves me like you said “to the core”. I cried as well. He simply speaks the Gospel and it carries with such force through him. His message to America is the Gospel. That is the only answer.
We visited Billy Graham Library a couple of years ago. Everyone should go there at least once. It embodies the history of his ministry and his love for God. There is even the card that he signed as a young boy when he received Jesus Christ. His precious wife is buried on the property in a special flower garden.
Love & Blessings,
Marilyn Saxon
South Carolina
Mare, I watched him as well many times as a kid. My appreciation for him grew tremendously in my adult years. I would love to be able to see the library one day. Thank you for sharing with me.
Love,
Jo
oops
not “Holy” but “Holy Spirit”
Janis – So glad you shared the video too. May it be a blessing to more lives! Blessings!