The death of evangelist Billy Graham seems almost unreal.  In our memories, we can still hear his voice, see his smile, and trace his influence. He died on Wednesday—age 99—at his home in North Carolina. From his first crusade to his dying breath he made clear he still believed and always believed what he preached.

Billy Graham was a titanic figure on the world stage. He preached in person to more persons than any other preacher in the history of Christianity.  It all began with a crusade in Los Angeles nearly 70 years ago that changed history, and led to the establishment of a global ministry of evangelism and good will.

I had the honor of knowing Billy Graham, and he was gracious to speak at my inauguration as president of Southern Seminary and give his name to our evangelism school. He was even greater in person than on the television screen or before a crowd. 

He has now gone home to his heavenly reward, to be with the God he loved so much and served so well.