For as long as I can remember, people from all walks of life have approached me and shared how their life had been transformed through the work and ministry of Billy Graham. What makes these conversations so special to me is that Billy Graham is my grandfather, a man I’ve known all of my life as “Daddy Bill”. In the past few years, my siblings and I decided it was time to share these stories – stories from the precious individuals who filled the stadiums, watched the television specials, and read Daddy Bill’s books. Stories of hope, forgiveness, joy, and redemption. That is why I am so excited to announce the recent release of our new book entitled, Thank You, Billy Graham: A Tribute to the Life and Ministry of Billy Graham. This book is a compilation of just a sampling of these many amazing stories. In celebration of the life of one of the last great lions of the 20th century who also happens to be an amazing grandfather, I want to share a little bit of my Daddy Bill story.
Daddy Bill and I have always shared a common interest…the world of politics. We have had many interesting political conversations over the past many years. What always fascinates me is that he has been friends with so many of the subjects of our conversations! One of my favorites is the account of Daddy Bill’s meeting Winston Churchill. He recalls being in London and receiving a call from Churchill’s assistant asking if he was able to drop by the following day to meet with the prime minister. Daddy Bill turned down the invitation because he was scheduled to travel to Scotland the next morning. Yes, my grandfather turned down the opportunity to meet one of the greatest heroes of the 20th century because of his commitment to tell others about Jesus! Fortunately, that was not the end of the story. The assistant called back and asked if he was available to meet the prime minister that same evening. A few minutes later, Daddy Bill was in a cab heading to 10 Downing Street!
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