Fuel for Thought

Billy Graham Library

By Dale
Posted Dec 12th 2009 3:27PM

            Well, I waited in South Carolina until Friday night, but no run was forthcoming. So, I decided to head for home.  On the way thru North Carolina, I decided to stop by the Billy Graham Library in Charlotte to do some Christmas shopping. 

  http://www.billygraham.org/BGLibrary_Index.asp

          I've been there a few times now, and really enjoy just wondering around the place.   Presidents Jimmy Carter, George H.W. Bush, and Bill Clinton all spoke at the opening on May 31, 2007.  It's a celebration of the life and Ministry of Dr. Billy Graham, who is of course, one of the most well known, and respected Ministers in the world.  If you have the chance, and the time, you should definately stop by.  Just take exit 6b off of 77 in Charlotte, and follow the signs for Billy Graham Parkway. 

           You start out in the parking lot, hearing gospel music, as it is played thru speakers placed thruout the landscaping.  You can tour the very house he grew up on. The house was moved to the grounds of the library when it was opened.  You then enter the library "At the foot of the Cross", as Dr. Graham put it. 

                 He wanted the focus to be on the cross, and on Jesus, not just his life. As you tour the library, there are many presentations that chronicle the life and times of Dr. Graham, from his humble beginnings growing up on a dairy farm outside Charlotte, to his evangelism, to becoming the 'preacher of presidents'.  The tour includes exhibits of many of his ground breaking ministries, including being allowed to preach in Communist Russia.  There is a lot of Presidential memorabilia, and even pieces of the Berlin Wall. It really is an inspiring journey of what is possible when someone dedicates their life to God.  His wife Ruth is buried on the property, as he will be eventually.  The book store, Ruth's Attic, contains all kinds of ministry materials, Bibles, book, and just a lot of cool stuff! That's where I did some shopping for my wife and daughter! 

             Right now they have the library decorated for Christmas, with a huge 20 ft Christmas tree, a live nativity scene, and thousands of lights around the property.  I talked to one of the security guards, and explained about expediters, and she assured me there would be room for straight trucks, and the occasional semi to park.  She did say semi parking would be limited, but if you are in a van, or straight truck, you definately should stop by.  It really doesn't feel like a 'Library'... every time I go, I leave feeling like I went to church. It's just that kind of atmosphere.

Dale is a Solo Van Owner Operator leased to FedEx Custom Critical. He can be reached with comments at [email protected]