DEAR REV. GRAHAM: I gave my grandson a nice Bible for his high school graduation, but his parents got upset and told me in his presence to quit shoving religion down his throat. I knew they didn't go to church or anything, but why would they react so strongly? Was I wrong to do this?
-- V.K.
DEAR V.K: No, it wasn't wrong for you to give your grandson a Bible. What was wrong was for them to embarrass you by openly criticizing you for giving. Common courtesy would have rejected such behavior.
Even if he sides with his parents right now and ignores the Bible you've given him, who knows what might happen in the future? Someday, for example, he may face a crisis and God will remind him of your gift and use it to turn his heart and life toward Christ. God's Word is not bound, and it is able to break through even the strongest barriers. The Bible says, "For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates ... the thoughts and attitudes of the heart" (Hebrews 4:12).
In addition to the Bible you've already given, let me suggest that you give him two other gifts, not just now but for years to come. First, give him the gift of your prayers. From what you say, he probably has very little knowledge about God. He may not even think about God very much. Pray that God will open his heart and mind, and draw him to Christ.
Second, give him the gift of your example of a life filled with Christ's love and grace. The Bible says, "Set an example ... in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity" (1 Timothy 4:12).
Write to Billy Graham in care of Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, N.C. 28201 or visit the website at
billygraham.org
MovieStyle on 06/30/2017