My wife showed me the story below. I am sharing it this month instead of writing a blog. I hope you enjoy it. I did.
When Billy Graham was 92 years- old, he was struggling with Parkinson’s disease. In January, a month before his 93rd birthday, leaders in Charlotte, North Carolina invited their favorite son, Billy Graham, to a luncheon in his honor.
Billy initially hesitated to accept the invitation because of his struggles with Parkinson’s disease. But the Charlotte leaders said, “We don’t expect a major address. Just come and let us honor you.” So, he agreed.
After wonderful things were said about him, Dr. Graham stepped up to the podium, looked at the crowd, and said, “I am reminded today of Albert Einstein, the great physicist who was honored by Time magazine as the Man of the Century.” Graham continued, “Einstein was once traveling on a train from Princeton when the conductor came by punching the tickets of every passenger. When he came to Einstein, Einstein reached into his vest pocket. The ticket was not there. He then reached into his trousers pocket. The ticket was not there either. He looked in his briefcase with no success. He looked on his seat and the seats around him. He still couldn’t find his ticket.
The conductor noticed him searching and remarked, “Dr. Einstein. I know who you are. I am sure you bought a ticket. Don’t worry yourself.” Einstein nodded appreciatively. The conductor continued down the aisle punching tickets. Just before he left the car, he looked back and saw the great professor on his hands and knees on the floor still looking for his ticket. The conductor rushed back and said. “Dr. Einstein, Dr. Einstein. I know who you are. I am sure you bought a ticket. Please do not worry.” Einstein nodded thankfully and said, “Young man. I also know who I am. What I don’t know is where I am going!”
Having told that story, Graham continued, “See the suit I am wearing? It is a brand-new suit. My children and grandchildren have told me I have gotten a little slovenly in my old age. I used to be more fastidious. So, I went out and bought this new suit for this luncheon and for one more occasion. What is that occasion you may ask? I will wear this suit for my funeral. But when I am dead, I don’t want you to immediately remember this suit. I want you to remember what I am going to say now.”
“I not only know who I am, but I also know where I am going. May your troubles be less, your blessings be more and may nothing but happiness come through your door. Life can be like an unsharpened pencil. It has no point. I hope you find your point. May all of you live your life so.”
Yes, may we all live our lives understanding and succeeding in the purpose God created us for. God wants us to desire to have a relationship with Him and experience His love. May you know the hope and riches to which He has called you.
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