ImpAct (Emphasis on Act)
Impact: To have a direct effect, get together, and strike forcefully! Act: something done voluntarily
Today, we celebrate the homecoming of evangelist Billy Graham. One week ago, we mourned, and are still mourning, the killings and violence in Parkland, Florida. These incidents have impacted me tremendously and without question have had an impact on millions of others.
Let’s start with these purpose-driven children who are visiting the Florida legislature today. They are taking action to drive change in our gun laws. While still grieving and burying their brave classmates and teachers, they took to the road for six hours and are demanding action to prevent another mass school shooting. The words of these high school students and images of them marching at the Capitol have impacted me to take action. I hope to join teenagers somewhere on March 24, the day set aside to march for our lives.
In The Journey, Billy Graham wrote, “Every journey has a starting point…and it has an end. God meant for life to be filled with joy and purpose.” William Franklin Graham Jr. was a man of purpose. Called to preach as a teenager, he impacted millions of lives, including mine. I have vivid memories of sitting with my family watching Billy Graham on TV. His message resonated with my mother and encouraged her to attend his revivals. Billy Graham was one of my first role models. Rev. Graham’s boldness impacted me. He was not ashamed of Christ’s gospel. I remember my siblings and I preaching loudly with a comb or brush microphone. We were impacted by his every word and gesture.
Often invited to the White House to pray over the nation, Rev. Graham spoke truth from power…he delivered words from God to presidents, royalty, and anyone who would listen. He made evangelicalism desirable and acceptable. One of my fondest memories of living in North Carolina was being at the dedication of the Billy Graham Library on May 31, 2007. I will always appreciate my friend Bob Morgan for making this amazing opportunity possible.
Later, my mother and sister also got the chance to tour the library. It was one of the best days of my mother’s life. I haven’t spoken to her yet today, but I know she is rejoicing at this soldier’s homecoming and reflecting on her day in that library. The beautiful entrance is in the shape of a cross. The place is all about the man, the message, the ministry, the mission…of the Lord Jesus Christ. ImpACT at every turn.
So, I’m watching the extremes today. On one end of the age spectrum, I see teenage survivors who have gathered their grief and passion and are speaking truth to power. I am witnessing young people demand action!
On the other end of the age spectrum, I am celebrating a 99-year-old man who was called into action as a teenager. Billy Graham impacted the world like few have been called to do. And now today, even in death, his impact continues.
I find myself in the center of these two age extremes, gleaning messages from the teenagers and from the life of Rev. Billy Graham. The message is simple:
It’s time to Act and impACT.
There’s work to do, messages to be delivered, and lives to touch.
That’s my two cynts! Just as I am!