When someone passes away, sorrow is often the first emotional response, manifesting itself in different ways. Ross and Kessler uncovered at least five stages of grief within us all. Whether expressed inwardly or externally, we all deal in our own way. However, as the internet flooded with news of Billy Graham’s death, I noticed an unusual pattern. For such a cynical medium, filled with political spars, savage memes, and faceless trolls, I was floored by the positive outpour from across the spectrum celebrating Graham’s life… and death. There was still negativity, but it seemed to be drowning in a sea of warmth.
Celebrating someone’s life after they have passed on is a tradition as old as humanity, but the response to Graham’s death left me pondering the emotions surrounding a believer’s earthly expiration. Is it possible to weep and rejoice in unison? Is there such a thing as joyful sorrow? I can’t speak to other faiths, but I think as a Christ follower, we have no choice but to experience both simultaneously. The sorrow of loss is mixed with the joy of promise. The bitter taste of saying a final goodbye to a friend is paired with the sweet homecoming of a brother or sister. This is the complex harmony within a believer’s soul.
And for a moment in time, it seems like an unbelieving world
understands the message in front of the man: “God loves you.” Even if they didn't believe, the one note of Graham's legacy that any person could hear was his God-filled life. To be celebrated
by your admirers is expected, but to be revered outside a group you identify
with… takes something special:
“We offer the American Muslim community’s condolences to
the loved ones of Billy Graham, a towering religious figure who represented his
faith with great enthusiasm, dignity and respect for all people, regardless of
their beliefs. His sincere and humble spirituality served as an example to all
people and will be greatly missed. May God bless his soul.” - The Council
on American-Islamic Relations
You see, whether from the mouths of peers, followers, or
adversaries, one cannot talk about Billy Graham without mentioning God. It is
impossible. The two are intertwined, and history will remember it as such. Can
you imagine being so dedicated to an ideal that your name becomes synonymous
with it? Yet… the reverse is not true. Many will talk about God without a
mentioning of Graham’s life. Many will know God without knowing Graham.
Truly, this is the life of a servant.
A simple farmer’s son who lent himself to a higher power.
A light in ever-growing darkness.
A man that ran the race with integrity.
A believer that took up his cross daily.
A leader of faith who left this world a better place
than he found it.
As we wade further into the river of life, let us pray that
our ideals outlive us. Believe that we can make a positive impact on this world. And remember that a perfect Master can be served by an
imperfect servant.
I’ve often found that the sorrow that comes with the ending
of a life well lived is softened with invincible hope. Well done, Billy Graham…
well done.
(Post Script: I would be remiss if I didn't share one of my favorite Billy Graham quotes: “Christ not only died for all: he died for each.” Enjoy your rest, thy good and faithful servant.)
