Biily Graham celebrates his 90th birthday without his bride;
The Old Marine

A Ruthless Pursuit of God Billy Graham celebrates his 90th birthday without his bride.A man called Billy greets each day without his cherished wife. And though he grieves for one so loved, he ruthlessly lives life.This confidant of Presidents has confidence in One who’s promised to provide the strength until faith’s race is run.Though weak and weary, Billy seeks the face of God through prayer. He’s frank and earnest with a Friend who knows his every care.He prays for those who call him dad, for nephews, nieces too. For grandchildren, for longtime staff, for nurses clad in blue.Yes, after sixty years or so of preaching to great crowds, what matters most might be the words he speaks at home head bowed.At ninety years the preacher knows God hears his every prayer. And though he’s old, he still is bold to give the Lord his cares.   * Dr. William (Billy) Franklin Graham turns 90 years of age today (November 7, 2008). His beloved wife Ruth passed away on June 14, 2007.  The Old Marine A personal response to the Marine Corps 233th birthday.The old Marine is weak and tired. He’s earned the right to rest. His furrowed brow can now relax. He’s faced his final test. His wrinkled hands appear at peace. They clutch a wooden cross. This old Marine knows all too well that winning follows loss. I watch him take his final breath. Then peacefully he’s gone. A long awaited victory at last has finally come. And like that Iwo Jima mount where brave men raised a flag, a banner flies in Heaven now as all the angels brag about redemption’s victory as blood ran down a hill when one brave man gave up his life in keeping with God’s will. With eyes of faith I see it all. The old Marine’s at peace. As “Semper Fi” jumps from his lips, he finds his soul’s release. * In the midst of grieving my dad’s death this week, I found cause for joy. I was able to arrange for his memorial service to be held on November 10th, the 233rd birthday of the U.S. Marine Corps. My dad would be so pleased.You see, Edwin Asimakoupoulos was a proud Marine who was an honor guard at the Surrender Ceremony aboard the Battleship Missouri that ended World War 2. This poem chronicles my dad’s bravery fighting for freedom and his courage battling cancer. It also celebrates his victory over death and his entrance into heaven all because of Christ’s sacrificial death and subsequent resurrection.Those who follow Jesus do not grieve without hope. Our hope in life and in death is based on a God who is always faithful. In joy and in sorrow, in sickness and in health as long as we all shall live, He never fails. Semper Fi.