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Just As I Am with Justin McLeod

Altar Call at Creekside with David Ring.

Just As I Am: An Introspective by Justin McLeod

The words of a song can be a lot of things: A comfort when one is hurting, or a pick-me-up when one is sad. But even greater is the role that a song can play in the salvation experience.

While the bible, the infallible word of God, clearly lays out the path to salvation, many times a song can be heard along the sinner’s path to saving grace. Sometimes serving as the tool to prick the sinner’s heart, sometimes the fertilization of a gospel seed already sown, or the catalyst to the final harvest of a soul won to Christ: the power of a song cannot be underestimated.

“Just As I Am” is perhaps the most well-known invitational hymn in the Christian church. Made especially famous in the mid-1900’s as the altar call for many a Billy Graham crusade, this hymn is still sung across the nation and the world on a regular basis even today. An 1835 composition from the pen of Charlotte Elliott, the lyrics of this song are simple, yet incredibly profound.

The first verse of the hymn reads:

Just as I am – without one plea,

But that Thy blood was shed for me,

And that Thou bidst me come to Thee,

-O Lamb of God, I come!

The hymn begins with an incredible truth and a basic tenant of the Christian faith – to approach our heavenly Father for salvation, we don’t have to put on a facade or dress a certain way, either literally or figuratively. We are to come to him in whatever messy, rotten, downtrodden shape in which we find ourselves.

Imagine you are the defendant in a courtroom and the judge asks, “How do you plead?” This is, in essence, the situation in which a sinner finds himself. Yet, instead of answering “guilty,” the blood of Jesus that was shed is your plea bargain; the judge bangs his gavel and cries “innocent – set free!”

Not only can we cast appearances aside, but we can offer no defense, no plea. None but the crimson red blood that flowed from the cross.

The hymn’s second verse:

Just as I am – and waiting not

To rid my soul of one dark blot,

To Thee, whose blood can cleanse each spot,

-O Lamb of God, I come!

One thing that I personally love about this hymn is that each verse starts off with a reminder that no false appearance, no put-on airs are necessary to meet the Savior. In this verse, the author speaks of the dark blot of sin and its stain on the sinner’s soul. But praise the Lord for waiting not, rushing to the feet of Jesus to claim the sacrifice of that very blood, the blood of Jesus that was shed to cleanse every spot of sin from blackest night to be as white as snow.

Just as I am – though toss’d about

With many a conflict, many a doubt,

Fightings and fears within, without,

-O Lamb of God, I come!

It can be incredibly difficult at times, especially in the middle of a circumstance or heartache, to turn to Jesus. Though tossed about, in any and every circumstance, the path to him is as simple as ever. Through conflicts, doubts, even deepest, darkest fears, the path to Jesus never changes – it is simply our view of that path that can become skewed.

Just as I am – poor, wretched, blind;

Sight, riches, healing of the mind,

Yea, all I need, in Thee to find,

-O Lamb of God, I come!

Image processed by CodeCarvings Piczard ### FREE Community Edition ### on 2018-02-21 19:14:15Z | http://piczard.com | http://codecarvings.com

Another incredible reminder that any and all are welcome in the Savior’s arms. Regardless of financial status, social standing, or even a physical disability, anyone and everyone can come to Jesus. The new testament’s 10 lepers were considered social outcasts, and yet Jesus not only spoke to them, he healed them. No matter what ailment affects us – whether physical, social, or something other – the answer, the solution, the cure is only found in one place.

Just as I am – Thou wilt receive,

Wilt welcome, pardon, cleanse, relieve;

Because Thy promise I believe,

-O Lamb of God, I come!

This is one of the most marvelous lyrics in post-biblical hymn-writing. It takes one simple decision, one belief, one ounce of faith in the Savior and he will receive us, welcome us, pardon us, cleanse us, and relieve us of every one of sin’s stains. He will receive us with no plea, without any line of defense but the blood of Jesus. Welcome us right this moment, without a single, solitary delay. Pardon us of the dark blots of sin. Cleanse us through that very same blood. Relieve us of conflicts and doubts, of fightings and fears, of ailments and wretchedness.

And all, simply, because Thy promise I believe.

By Justin McLeod

Justin McLeod is a regular writer for SGNScoops Magazine.

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Justin McLeod

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The Legacy of Billy Graham

2/5/1981 President Reagan Nancy Reagan and Billy Graham at the National Prayer Breakfast held at the Washington Hilton Hotel

Rob Patz’ Publisher’s Point for SGNScoops’ March 2018 issue

Welcome to the March Publisher’s Point. As I sit and write this, I have been trying to put into words my emotions about the loss of Billy Graham.

It is amazing to look at the impact that one man had on our world. Dr. Graham never wanted to over complicate a very simple and true message, that Jesus died on the cross for you and for me, and that if you accept Him as your personal Savior, one day you will see heaven.

Dr.Billy Graham

I think of how amazing it must’ve been when Dr. Graham crossed over, and for the first time, got to see exactly what he had been preaching about. I read one quote that said that this world was not his home, that he was just a traveler passing through here. I think we should all live that way.

So many of us, me included, work so hard to accumulate possessions here on earth. We want to be able to say, “This is mine,” when in reality, none of this is ours. Everything that we are given is a gift from God. How we use those gifts is a completely different story.

I truly believe as an outsider looking in, that Dr. Graham, throughout his life, took the gifts that God had given him and created a legacy that will last forever.

The last few days have made me realize that the only thing that we leave on this earth is what we do for Christ. That will last forever. It has challenged me to do more, to enjoy more, to seek God more. At the end of the day, I want to leave a legacy of pointing people to Christ and His cross and challenging those around me to do the same.

As we know, March ushers in spring and new beginnings, and I want to challenge you during this month to pray about what God has for you to do, and for the rest of this year. What legacy will you leave? What impact will you have, and what is the plan God has for you?

Rob Patz and Chuck Day

By the time you read this, Southern Gospel Weekend in Oxford, Ala., will have come to a close for another year. I do want to invite you to join us for Christian Country Expo in Cookeville, Tenn., from May 3-5.

Of course, I also want you to be with us for Creekside 2018 in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., which kicks off on Oct. 28.

March 2018 SGNScoops Magazine

May this be a year that we all strive to point people to the cross and leave a legacy that will enhance the kingdom.

This is the Publisher’s Point.

By Rob Patz

First published by SGNSCOOPS in March 2018

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SPOTIFY PAYS TRIBUTE TO BILLY GRAHAM WITH PLAYLIST,REV. BILLY GRAHAM – IN MEMORIUM

Billy Graham

Artists Featured include U2, Alan  Jackson, Casting Crowns, Jason Crabb, Don Moen, Elvis Presley, Aretha Franklin, Bart Millard, For King & Country, Johnny Cash and many more

» CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO THE PLAYLIST «

Spotify, a leading digital music service provider, is paying tribute to Rev. Billy Graham upon his passing with a special playlist, Rev. Billy Graham – In Memorium.

JASON CRABB

With over 60 songs, the playlist features a stellar lineup of artists whose songs reflect the teachings and honor the life of Billy Graham. Graham passed away February 21, 2018, in Montreat, NC.

Among the artists featured on the playlist are: Alan Jackson, Amy Grant, Andrae Crouch, Bart Millard, Casting Crowns, DC Talk, Don Moen, Cliff Barrows, Elvis Presley, For King & Country, George Beverly Shea, Jason Crabb, Jim Reeves, Joey & Rory, Johnny Cash, Mahalia Jackson, Michael W. Smith, the Oak Ridge Boys, Reba McEntire, Selah, TobyMac, U2, and many more.

Music was an integral part of every single Billy Graham crusade, drawing listeners in and preparing their hearts for the gospel message. This playlist is an uplifting and stirring collection of music that will bless those who listen.

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Crossroads Partners with the BGEA to Honor the Ministry of Billy Graham

The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and Crossroads Label Group joined together to create a musical tribute to Billy Graham and his historic Crusades. Click on the photo to watch the tribute, “Passing The Torch.”

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Historical musical tribute celebrates Billy Graham’s ministry

Arden, NC. (March 1, 2018) – At Rev. Billy Graham’s historic Crusades, Gospel music always paved the way for his message. In a moving video memorial titled “Passing the Torch,” The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (website here) and Crossroads Label Group (website here) pay tribute to Graham and the music that played a significant role in his ministry.

The music and video medley shows George Beverly Shea in Los Angeles in 1963, Ethel Waters in New York City in 1957 and Johnny Cash in Irving, Texas in 1971 singing “I’d Rather Have Jesus,” “His Eye Is On The Sparrow,” “Peace In the Valley” and “How Great Thou Art” before modern Gospel artists Michael W. Smith, Melinda Doolittle and Jason Crabb pick up and carry on the tunes.

The tribute debuted after Graham’s death February 21 to a live audience while a motorcade took his body from The Cove in Asheville, NC to The Billy Graham Library in Charlotte, NC over the weekend. It signifies a passing of the torch from one generation to the next and stands as a reminder of the timeless nature of Graham’s ministry.

Dr.Billy Graham

“I believe as Billy Graham passed from this life to his eternal life, the Lord himself said “‘Well done my good and faithful servant!'” says Jason Crabb. “I was honored to sing at Billy’s final crusade in New York, and perform many times at his wonderful training center called The Cove . I was happy to be a part of this extraordinary tribute video.”

The video was produced several years ago as one of many memorial tributes to the evangelist that would be shown after his death. Crossroads produced the complex musical score while the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association produced the captivating video at the Blumenthal Theatre in Charlotte, NC.

It has now been viewed more than 2 million times.

“Being asked to produce this audio piece for the Graham organization, in conjunction with my wife Kimberly, was such an honor,” says Chris White, co-owner of Crossroads Label Group. “Session leader, Jeff Collins, along with our studio players and engineers, totally made the piece come to life. Being a part of this production, to honor the life of Dr. Graham, was certainly one of the greatest highlights of my career.”

Audio Credits:
Chris White, senior audio producer
Jeff Collins, recording session leader
Van Atkins, engineer
Kevin Ward, engineer
Video Credits:
The Billy Graham Evangelist Association, executive producer
Vonda Harrell, senior producer
Kevin Adamson, director
John Schroter, editor
Kim White, producer

About Crossroads:
Crossroads is a market leader in the Southern Gospel, Bluegrass, and Americana fields. Established in 1993, following the combination of Horizon Music Group and Sonlite Records, Crossroads now operates several divisions including Crossroads Label Group (Horizon Records, Sonlite Records, Mountain Home Music, Skyland Records, Pisgah Ridge Records, Crossroads Records, and Organic Records), Crossroads Distribution, Crossroads Radio Promotions, Crossroads Publishing Group and Crossroads Recording Studios. Led by a strong executive team of Christian music and Bluegrass music veterans, Crossroads combines cutting-edge technology with creative innovation to connect fans with our artists’ life-changing music. View the Crossroad’s website here.

Rev. Franklin Graham Talks about His Father, Billy Graham

Happy Father’s Day ! Rev. Franklin Graham talks about being the son of Billy Graham in this video.

Watch Below:

Billy Graham Library 2013 A Joyous Christmas Celebration By Angela Griffin

A joyous Christmas celebration comes to life as the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association presents “Christmas at the Library 2013” in Charlotte, NC. The spirit of Christmas rings throughout the library and the most beautiful, magnificent Christmas tree adorns the lobby. The message of our Lord and Savior is carved in the beams above and Billy Graham’s life journey is shared throughout multimedia presentations, photos, and memorabilia. Upon exiting the library you are met with a joyful representation of Christmas.

The sounds of the season ring out as artists come from near and far to share in the glorious display of the birth of Christ. The Foothills Community Choir, The Griffins, Southern Sound, Praise Masters and other artists sing fan favorites like: ” Beautiful Star of Bethlehem,” “Silent Night,” ” Go Tell,” “O Holy Night” and countless other Christmas favorites that embrace everyone as they enjoy the festivities at hand.

Angela Griffin of The Griffins shares, “It was a complete honor for The Griffins to take part in the Christmas at the Library 2013 celebration. As I looked upon the faces of the young and old while we were singing, I remember thinking that the greatest gift ever given was a little baby Boy that came into the world, not to condemn the world, but to give life and give it more abundantly. We serve the most high God every time we minister in song, but this opportunity will forever be etched in my heart.”

A live nativity scene is located just before you enter the library. A still-life representation of Jesus birth, complete with a little baby boy lying in a manger and Mary and Joseph by his side. The shepherds, lamb, cow, camel, donkey and others make it seem very real. A guest, Betty Stacey, pointed out that night that the brightest star was shining just over the live Nativity scene of December 6th scene as if it were the first Christmas morn. It was a breathtaking site.

Oh what fun it is to watch the kids as they gather on the heated patio to listen as Christmas books are read from Ruth’s Attic Bookstore located inside. The children are snug and warm they sit quietly. You can see their little eyes light up as the storyteller captures their attention with the wondrous stories of
Christmas.

Children of all ages also experience the ambiance of Christmas at the library by guided horse-drawn carriage rides around the beautiful Library and Billy Graham Evangelistic Headquarters. The 15-minute ride captures a picture perfect canvas of what Christmas is all about: a joyous time of year, kids laughing, lights flashing, carolers singing complete with the live Nativity scene of Jesus’ birth.

You can experience “Christmas At The Library 2013” now through December 23, 2013. Visit www.billygrahamlibrary.org for a complete overview of all the activities, hours of operation, and cost. May the spirit of Christmas be with you always.

Join TBN for a Special Birthday Tribute to Dr. Billy Graham

LOS ANGELES, Nov. 2, 2012 /Christian Newswire/ — On November 7 Praise the Lord, Trinity Broadcasting Network’s signature music, talk, and ministry program, will host a very special two-hour tribute in honor of Dr. Billy Graham as he celebrates his 94th birthday.

“Perhaps no other individual alive today has done more to deliver the simple, powerful message of the gospel around the world than Billy Graham,” said TBN’s founder and president Dr. Paul Crouch. “For all of us here at TBN, Dr. Graham has been a constant source of encouragement and a solid example of godly character. We are looking forward to highlighting his many decades of selfless service to God’s kingdom and the body of Christ.”

TBN’s special tribute will include historic and moving video clips from many of Dr. Graham’s crusades around the world, along with personal recollections and birthday greetings from dozens of Christian leaders, celebrities, and public figures.

In addition, TBN is inviting viewers to post their own brief birthday greetings and encouraging recollections about Dr. Graham and his impact on their lives via TBN’s Facebook page (Click Here).

“For 40 years TBN has been committed to broadcasting the message of the gospel through the medium of television,” said Dr. Crouch. “And throughout our entire history no one has been a greater example and encouragement to us than our dear friend Billy Graham. Please join us on his birthday in thanking this great man of God for his service and sacrifice.”

TBN’s special tribute to Dr. Billy Graham airs November 7 at 7 p.m. (Pacific Time). For those who miss it, the program will be rebroadcast November 8 at 2 p.m. (Pacific Time).

Shooting in Aurora: Billy Graham Rapid Response Team Chaplains Offering Hope Amidst Tragedy

CHARLOTTE, N.C., July 20, 2012  — Billy Graham Rapid Response Team chaplains are on-site in Aurora, Colo., where a gunman opened fire on a theater full of moviegoers in the early hours of the morning. News reports indicate that at least 12 victims have died as a result of the shooting and dozens more are injured.

“Words can’t begin to describe the pain of this situation,” said Jack Munday, director of the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team. “We are grieving alongside the families of those killed and wounded in this senseless and horrific tragedy. Please pray for all of those who have been affected. We will be there to offer emotional and spiritual care, and the hope and compassion of Jesus Christ, in the aftermath.”

Chaplains were already in Colorado responding to wildfires in and around Colorado Springs and Fort Collins. This allowed them to respond immediately to the shooting in Aurora.

Previously, Billy Graham Rapid Response Team chaplains have deployed following shootings in Tucson, Az. (2011); Cumbria, U.K. (2010); Maryville, Ill., Carthage, N.C., Oakland, Calif., and Binghamton, N.Y. (2009); Northern Illinois University in DeKalb, Ill. (2008); Virginia Tech University in Blacksburg, Va., Crandon, Wis., and Arvada, Colo. (2007); and the Red Lake Indian Reservation in Minn. (2005).

The Billy Graham Rapid Response Team is a nationwide network of chaplains across 47 states that are specifically trained to deal with crisis situations. Since the ministry was launched in 2002, it has responded to more than 135 natural and man-made disasters, including hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, fires and shootings.

For more information on the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team, visit www.billygraham.org/rrt. For videos, photos and news articles from recent Billy Graham Rapid Response Team deployments, visit www.billygraham.org/response. Ministry updates and photo galleries are posted at www.facebook.com/BGRapidResponseTeam.

Billy Graham Celebrates 93rd Birthday Following Release of 30th book, ‘Nearing Home’

CHARLOTTE, N.C. Evangelist Billy Graham will turn 93 on November 7, following the release of his 30th book, “Nearing Home,” through which he shares personal autobiographical reflections and wisdom on growing old.

“All my life I was taught how to die as a Christian, but no one ever taught me how I ought to live in my latter years,” Mr. Graham wrote. “I wanted to share some of the things I have learned about this stage in life with others, as the aging process is something most of us will experience.”

While working on the book consumed much of his focus during the previous year, Mr. Graham still found time to spend with family members, sharing his life and thoughts with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as he encourages others to do with their own families.

“The greatest legacy one can pass on to one’s children and grandchildren is not money or other material things accumulated in one’s life, but rather a legacy of character and faith,” he added.

As he has done throughout his career spanning more than 60 years, the evangelist practices what he preaches, and is careful to spend as much time as possible with his family, lunching weekly with son, Franklin; regularly getting together with his daughter, Gigi, who lives near by; and receiving others when they come to visit.

On occasion Mr. Graham also hosts old friends and Christian leaders he has known through the years. “I always enjoy visiting with those who come to see me, and I hope that I am able to encourage them in some way as they have been a great encouragement to me.”

Still interested in world events, Mr. Graham spends time each day watching the news headlines and discussing newspaper articles with staff, family and friends. His daily Bible reading and prayer time remain a priority, and he receives regular visits from his pastor to pray together and discuss biblical passages and spiritual matters.

Part of Mr. Graham’s studies is devoted to future projects such as the prospects of additional publications or the opportunity for ministry via the Internet. “I am amazed at the wonders of technology and am grateful for the ways in which we are able to use it to share the Gospel around the world,” Mr. Graham said. “I look forward to seeing how God may still be able to use me to serve Him in these latter years.”

Editor’s Note: For those who would like to send personal birthday greetings to Mr. Graham, they are encouraged to do so on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ReverendBillyGraham or on Twitter using the hashtag #happybdaybillygraham.

Bill Dykes Signs Recording Contract with Pathway Records

{EHA-Nashville, TN}Newly launched, Pathway Records of Franklin, TN has added Bill Dykes to its roster. Dykes has a lengthy, successful history with some of the most notable groups in the Southern Gospel genre, including The Cathedrals, The Goffs, Coy Cook & The Senators, and The Rhythm Masters. He has performed in events led by Jerry Falwell, Pat Robinson, Rex Humbard, Billy Graham, Oral Roberts, and Paul Conn. Recording and performing on four #1 songs, garnering three Dove nominations, a Gospel Music News Award, owning his own group; Chariot, opening for Mike Huckabee, and achieving Gold status with his “This is Love,” is only a brief overview of his 45 years of dedication, contributions, and accolades that will be stamped in the pages of Gospel Music history.