Over Thanksgiving, we were close enough to the Billy Graham Library that we decided this would be a great rainy-day activity. The Library consists of his home when he was younger, a barn which contains memorabilia, and the grounds also include where he and his wife are buried; along with a few other people who were among the original crusades.

I don’t know if you were able to go to one of his crusades or not, but I went to one back in 2000 when he came to Nashville. I had an almost one-year-old with me and was pregnant with our second. It was hot, and I just remember how simple his sermon was that he preached. And, then, without any hesitation, people just started headed down for people to pray for them. It was a bit surprising.

I would like to share some things I have learned from the life of Billy Graham.

1. We often complicate Jesus. Seeing all the people come to pray after his sermon back in 2000 reminded me that keeping it simple is often the best way to reach others.
2. Refer to Scripture. When we preach from the Bible, we are saying God’s words and ones that aren’t our own. This allows us to get out-of-the-way and allows God to move as needed.
3. We each need to do our own part. God was able to use Billy Graham because Billy said yes to God. Yet, Billy’s life was made easier because his wife, Ruth, said yes to helping support Billy Graham. When we each do what God has called us to do, great things can be accomplished.

The life of Billy Graham was very inspiring. As I read each of the Scriptures throughout the tour, saw the pictures of the lives he had touched, and saw the legacy he’d left behind, I was a bit overwhelmed. It left me wondering, am I doing all that God has called me to do at this time?

I used to think that God called us to do one thing in life: pastor, businessman, teacher, accountant, wife, mother, etc. I was complicating things! In reality, God calls us to follow Him and in that following Him, it brings us to different places. Our circumstances change, which might change the direction we travel, but as long as our calling of following God is guiding our paths, then we are headed in the right direction.

Daily dive into Scriptures and base what you say and do upon the very words God has gifted to us. Don’t take this knowledge of God for granted. We are each called to live into the lives God has created for us. In doing our parts, we can change this world and let them see the differences in those who choose to follow Christ out of love.

Don’t be afraid to let go of where God’s lead you. If He asks you to let go, He’ll lead you in a new direction. Don’t fear change when God is leading because He desires good for you. Lean into the leading of the Holy Spirit upon your life. Commune with God, long to spend time with Him, and really listen for where He’s moving around you. Join Him on that journey.

We are in a time of waiting! We have the hope of the season this advent season. Don’t miss Him! I know Billy didn’t!

© 2018 Susan M. Sims

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