Over this past year, I have really enjoyed learning more about Dr. Billy Graham. Since Dr. Graham passed away in February, I read his book about salvation called The Reason for my Hope and blogged about it here. It was a real treat to read Franklin Graham’s perspective on his dad’s life, ministry, and legacy. Franklin shared a lot of things that were particularly helpful, but what I enjoyed reading about the most was the careful planning that went into his dad transitioning out of some areas of ministry in order to set up Franklin to carry the ministry forward.
To read about the way that Dr. Graham put his own name and ministry on the line in order to give his son some incredible opportunities was really enlightening. As I consider the legacy that I’d like to invest in both my own children and my students, it’s important to look for those areas to show them that “I trust you to handle this well.” Franklin was also quick to share when some of those things didn’t quite go as planned!
I’m not sure that we will ever see another preacher/evangelist who will have the impact that Dr. Graham has had for the kingdom of God. However, I am quickly reminded that his ministry was what it was because of a very simple “yes” to following God’s call on his life. If the legacy of Dr. Graham’s life and ministry is that he was willing to be obedient and faithful to living our God’s call on his life…I think that he would be very pleased with that.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through their book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”