Billy Graham Library
A Dream
When I retired from my position at the church where I served for many years, the people honored me with a lavish gift. Together, they gave me an all-expense-paid trip to visit the Billy Graham Library in North Carolina. I had dreamed of seeing it ever since I learned of its existence. Billy Graham’s commitment to Jesus and the Gospel encouraged my heart and strengthened my faith. He was and is a hero of mine. I have learned much from his life and ministry.
I watched the video of Billy Graham’s memorial service at the library and wondered what it was like for USA presidents and other dignitaries as they entered the building. I wanted to be at that sacred place and soak it all in.
A Dream Come True
My husband and I traveled to North Carolina in October of the year I retired, hoping to see autumn leaves. It turned out to be too early for the leaves to change color, but God had an even greater gift in store for me. We drove to the library the morning after we arrived in Charlotte. I planned to stay the whole day. I didn’t want to miss a thing.
As we found a parking place, I glanced over at the library. It looked just as it did in the pictures and videos, though more beautiful in person because of the meticulously manicured grounds. The building is shaped like a barn, reminiscent of Billy Graham’s childhood experience. Emblazoned on the front of the building is a giant window in the shape of the cross, symbolizing the Gospel that the evangelist so powerfully shared with millions.
The Foot of the Cross
Not until I was on site did I grasp that the doors to the library opened at the foot of the cross. My eyes filled with tears at the realization of it. I could barely keep it together as I moved toward those doors. Entering the library at the foot of the cross readied my heart for the gift God gave me that day.
All through the building there were pictures and stories of lives touched by the Gospel. Scripture verses painted on the walls lifted up the name of Jesus. Mementos and videos from crusades all over the world revealed the power of the cross to change lives. The Holy Spirit’s presence was palpable. Tears filled my eyes.
The Glory of the Gospel
Like most people of my generation, I grew up watching Billy Graham and his team on television. My heart rejoiced when people made decisions for Christ. Twice as an adult–once in Milwaukee and once in Los Angeles–I was privileged to be a counselor for his crusades. I will never forget the joy of praying with people who came forward expressing their desire to know Jesus as their Savior.
As I’ve matured, my love for the Gospel grows even deeper. It moves me to tears regularly. It overwhelms me to think that Jesus died in my place. He bore the wrath of God for my sin and for the sin of every person who has ever lived. He saved me from eternal death and from a life of despair. He is the hope of the world.
I want to live the rest of my days pointing people to the Gospel. The power of it never changes. I love the Billy Graham Library because I love the Gospel. And I love the Savior who died to offer Himself to me and to the world. All glory to Him.
Acts 20:24 “But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.”
Photo by the Library of Congress