Hope for the World?

Earlier today the evangelist Billy Graham died at the age of 99. It is estimated that in his lifetime he preached in person to 210 million people. The following is a story about Billy Graham that I heard not so long ago.

It comes from the year 1954 when Billy Graham visited the city of London. Over a 12 week period he preached to capacity crowds night after night in London’s Harringay Arena, culminating in a final rally when a crowd of 120,000 packed into Wembley Stadium. During his time in London the story is told of how Billy Graham met with an elderly gentleman. The gentleman was curious to understand the appeal of Billy Graham’s message and why so many ordinary people were eager to hear him.

At one point in the conversation the man turned to Billy Graham and he said: ‘I have no hope. I see no hope for the world.’ Then he asked Billy Graham a question. He said ‘Do you have any real hope?’ That elderly gentleman who that day in 1954 confessed to the young Billy Graham ‘I see no hope for the world’ - that gentleman’s name was Winston Churchill.

Here is Billy Graham picking up the story in his autobiography Just as I Am:

I answered ‘Are you without hope for your own soul’s salvation?’

Billy Graham continued:’Frankly, I think about that a great deal’ Churchill replied. I had my New Testament with me. Knowing that we had but a few minutes left, I immediately explained the way of salvation. I watched carefully for signs of irritation or offence, but he seemed receptive, if not enthusiastic. I also talked about God’s plan for the future, including the return of Christ. His eyes seemed to light up at the prospect.

At precisely twelve-thirty Mr Colville (the Prime Minister’s Secretary) knocked. ‘Sir Winston, the Duke of Windsor is here for your luncheon.’ He said.

‘Let him wait!’ Mr Churchill growled, waving Mr Colville off and turning back to me. ‘Go ahead’ he said.

I went on for about another fifteen minutes, then asked if I could pray.

‘Most certainly,’ he said standing up. ‘I’d appreciate it.’

Today we give thanks for the life and legacy of Billy Graham.