Nearing Home, by Billy Graham
Life, Faith and Finishing Well
When I was in my teen years, Billy Graham was just hitting his stride on the way to becoming the world’s most-famous evangelist.
Now, at 93, in his recent book he looks ahead and shares what it’s like to be “nearing home.” He quotes Psalm 90:12: “Teach us to number our days that we may gain a heart of wisdom,” and other scripture portions pertaining to time, youth, life and aging.
Graham now resides in his home in the mountains of North Carolina. His health is frail, but his faith is strong. He remarks that he never expected he would live to be as old as he is.
This book is not only for those of advancing age. On the contrary, it could be a good read for young people whose lives lie ahead of them. The writer of Ecclesiastes tells us to “consider in the days of our youth” how we want to live our lives. Graham started out well following Jesus Christ and now he shares how to finish well.
Graham includes practical advice on retirement, wills, adapting to fading strength, and leaving a legacy of godly influence in later years. He shares his loneliness since the death of his wife, Ruth.
In the final chapter, “What is Heaven Like?” Graham admits the Bible doesn’t answer all our questions. But he does list five important truths about Heaven that will interest readers.
This book provides a glimpse into the mind and heart of one of God’s faithful preachers, at the close of a life well lived. It would make a great gift for anyone at any stage on life’s journey.
I received this complementary book as part of the Thomas Nelson BookSneeze program.
Reviewed by Carole Ledbetter, Author of Who Am I Now? Growing Through Life’s Changing Seasons
