The Story of the Influence of God That Shaped A Man to Answer the Call

Yesterday I went to visit the Billy Graham Library in Charlotte NC with the C4 14-002 class. The library is not what you think you are going to see.  Many would believe that it would be about the man whose name is on the library, but it is not.  The library is about God's interaction with a young farm boy, who grows up to follow God's calling upon his life.  What is interesting is that William Franklin Graham, "Billy Graham" has, was, and is willing to be used by God to share the message of salvation.  The powerful message of God's redemptive love for all is shared throughout the library.  The story of Billy's ministry and life is weaved throughout the story of God's power to use a farm boy to preach the good news to the world. 

Now some might be puzzled by the opening exhibit.  It's a talking cow.  The cow has a very country ascent and speaks about how she observed a young farm boy growing up to be a messenger for God.  It is cute and really grabs the attention of the young children.  One thing the cow says that I have reflected about is that one day all will worship God together, even the animals will worship God.  The Billy Graham Library is a place that honors God, while sharing the life and testimony of God's powerful blessing through the man Billy Graham.  He was a pastor to eleven presidents, a messenger of peace to many world leaders, a spokesman of good news to communist countries, and a willing vessel to be used by God.  Yes, he was influenced by God to be an influencer for God.

No one could say that Billy Graham used the platform established by God for himself, but he did use the message God laid on his heart to speak to the world.  I have wondered about how many times Billy Graham must have been asked to run for office or to be an endorsement for a political candidate.  He has been on the world stage for over 60 years.  He has been involved in so many issues as a spokesman for God's message of love; that he is considered the biggest leader for Christian influence in the 20th century.  He has sought to remain true to his calling and to leave a foundation upon which the ministry can continue. He has spoken to millions and has been a voice of truth as such as time as this.
 
The message that comes through the library is that God has a plan for each of us and if you are willing to be used by him your life will be forever changed.  Are you willing to take that journey?  Are you willing to allow yourself to be used?  Are you willing to allow God control of your ministry?  Who will be next  to answer the call in order to be used to share the message of hope to a lost and dying world?  Billy Graham would say God is waiting for you to respond. 

Let us pray. God I am a sinner in need of your redeeming grace and love.  I am willing to be used by you to be a spokesman of your redemptive work.  Use me not to build an empire for myself but to guide others to your kingdom in heaven.  Grant to me nothing but strength to speak of your truth to the world.  Increase my faith in your holy words that they are inerrant and inspired for all generations.  In Jesus' Name Amen...