A Moment With Pastor Fred
4/6/18
Its been over a month now since Billy Graham died. I wanted to say something earlier, but other things occupied our attention.
It’s really hard to imagine the impact Graham had on 20th
Century Christianity. He spoke in 400 crusades to 200 million people – live, not including the television audience and in 185 nations. He was friend, counselor to 10 presidents. He was in Gallup’s annual poll as one of the most admired men in the world 60 times.
I didn’t agree with Graham’s cooperative evangelism. He built bridges where I think bridges should not have been built. But I admire him for his faithfulness to the gospel. He never wavered to saying the answer to our problems is to be in a right relationship with God through Jesus Christ. Regardless of where he was – or who he was with, he was clear on the gospel. The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association never had a scandal – moral or financial. That is remarkable – especially in our age of allegations. He was married to his wife for 64 years. The Grahams were parents of four children – some of whom have had their own heartaches and trials. Suffering doesn’t discriminate.
Sue and I watched the funeral a month ago. It was moving – I fought back tears a few times. Here is a man who gave himself to the gospel of Christ. I have several friends in ministry who were saved at a Graham crusade. I am thankful for his legacy. I too want to hear the words at my death, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” I hope that is your desire and prayer as well.