BILLY GRAHAM: A MAN FOR THIS SEASON OF NEED

For most of us, it seems as though there has always been a Billy Graham. For those of us who have never attended one of the evangelist's crusades, we have heard him on the radio or watched him on television or read his widely syndicated newspaper column.

What is striking about Billy Graham is that he crosses generational boundaries. Parents and their children -- regardless of age -- tend to hold the preacher in the same high regard.

Graham has ministered to U.S. presidents and world leaders. His crusading career has brought thousands of inquiring people to an understanding of Christian salvation. His evangelistic effort is one of the most respected and most widely known organizations in the world.

With the opening of his third St. Louis crusade last night, thousands of people, including hundreds from Southeast Missouri, are expected to hear his message at the Trans World Dome. Many of those listening with rapt attention to a man considered to be one of the greatest Protestant evangelists of all time will be the same as those who heard Pope John Paul II, leader of the world's Roman Catholics, earlier this year. How remarkable it is that two of the greatest religious figures of our time have been in the same city in this, the last year of the millennium.

Both Graham and the pope have an appeal that easily crosses over denominational boundaries. Many of Graham's most ardent fans can't even say what denomination he belongs to. Like the pope, Graham's message is durable and simple. Listeners rarely hear any deep theological exegesis as Graham speaks with a voice tinged with Southern heritage. What they hear is the same direct and clear message that he has been delivering for more than half a century. It is easy to understand, and Graham makes what he says believable.

In a world that seems to be caught in a tailspin of loose morality and lax ethics, there is much to be drawn from individuals whose rock-solid and fundamental messages are delivered to such a broad audience.

There is much to be gained and nothing to be lost when people find their hearts are changed -- born again, as Graham would say -- by the simple message of redemption and salvation. The world is a better place, in spite of its weaknesses, because of great men like Billy Graham and Pope John Paul II.