The Christian world has watched Billy Graham’s faltering health with bated breath, especially as his 95^th birthday in November draws closer. Some have billed his much-publicised message to America on his birthday as his “final message” though the Billy Graham camp itself is not calling it such.

“My Hope America with Billy Graham” is a massive US-wide evangelistic effort taking place for one week from 7th November. Christians will invite non-Christian neighbours and friends to their home to watch the TV and internet simulcast of  “The Cross,” or the DVD version where the great evangelist will share his new message.

“With all my heart I want to leave you with the truth that He loves you and wants to forgive you of your sins.”

The “My Hope” programme actually began in 2002 and has spread to 57 nations, but it’s this year’s message that has many Americans waiting. In an article on NewsMax.com, Graham’s son Franklin—who now heads the Billy Graham Evangelistic Organisation—reports that his father had “been praying how, at the end of his life, God may use him one more time to speak to this nation; he is limited by age, but his mind is keen.”

The organisation confirms that the elderly Graham has completed recording The Cross.  “With all my heart I want to leave you with the truth that He loves you and wants to forgive you of your sins,” he says.

Franklin Graham says the telecast “will air…on FOX News Channel, TBN and other Christian networks, and also on local TV stations in a number of cities. More than 22,000 churches from every state in the nation have already signed up to participate this November.”

Billy Graham has huge respect in America, especially with the older generation who have witnessed his famous crusades since the 1940s.  They know him to be the man who has personally met and provided a listening ear to 12 US presidents.

Some “man in the street” comments collected from the American Bible Society point to his popularity:

“He’s inspirational! He’s been speaking the Word of God for many years. I remember first hearing about him when I was ten or eleven. If he’s lasted this long, he must be doing something right. He’s not afraid to speak his mind. He’s known even in non-Christian circles, with a worldwide ministry for some years now. Someone, at some point in their lives – who aren’t Christians – may have heard of him.” Eddie, 54

““I admire Billy Graham. I used to love watching reruns of his crusades on Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN) late Saturday nights. He preached the gospel to millions with boldness, humility and love. Not everyone agreed with him, but no one could deny his humility, integrity, gentleness and Christ-like character. As far as I know, there never were any scandals with his ministry or him, which authenticated the relevance of what he preached. He was able to cross international and cultural boundaries. God anointed him to reach the world with the message of forgiveness, hope and love found in Jesus Christ. Billy Graham was a mighty servant of God and I am thankful for how God used him.” Rob of Philadelphia

“I know his name. Great evangelist. I remember when he went to South Korea. That was a big deal.” Emma, early 40’s

Of course, time and a changing society have taken their toll and newer generations of Americans have a slightly different story to tell.

“Don’t know much about Billy Graham. Not my generation. Never heard one of his sermons. Seems too fanatical.” Joannie, early 40’s

“I have no idea who Billy Graham is.” Phil, 26

Still, there are many worldwide who have a high regard for Billy Graham and his life’s work. Australian songwriter and pastor Darlene Zschech has written a song for the CD My Hope: Songs Inspired by the Message and Mission of Billy Graham which features notable Christian artists like Michael W Smith and Kari Jobe.

The CD, and a new book by Graham called The Reason for My Hope: Salvation were released yesterday.

In the past, Americans have stopped to listen to Billy Graham, and no doubt many will be doing the same in November.  Elsewhere in the world, people will have to depend on satellite TV networks, the internet or the DVD version.

This resource will be added to Graham’s lifetime of sermons and messages, archived and still used as resources worldwide. His son and grandson have both followed him into Christian ministry, and the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association continues his work in multiple nations, Australia included. Will Graham regularly visits Australia to evangelise, and will next be here May 2014 (9-11 May in Broken Hill, and 18 May in Hobart).

One way or another, Billy Graham’s call to everyone to follow the cross will continue to be heard, whether or not his November message is the last one he delivers in his lifetime.

Featured image: Courtesy of Billy Graham Evangelistic Organisation.