Billy Graham is weak, but his 'mind is clear,' says son Franklin

by Staff, |
Billy Graham is seen in this file photo. | (Photo: BGEA/File)

CHARLOTTE, North Carolina (Christian Examiner) -- Billy Graham, the influential evangelist, may be weak in body, but his spirit is strong, his son Franklin said in a recent interview. The 96-year-old preacher has been hospitalized several times since 2013, when he underwent observation and lung tests, but his family says they're still blessed that he has his right mind.

"He's very weak," Franklin Graham told NBC in a recent interview. "He's 96 years of age so he doesn't have a lot of stamina and he doesn't carry on long conversations, but his mind is still clear and we're thankful for that."

The longtime evangelist is still well enough to watch football games as well. He watched the Green Bay Packers beat the Dallas Cowboys 26-21 last Sunday.

"One of the nurses beside him, she said 'Dr. Graham did you ever preach there'? He said, 'oh yes' and we talked a little bit about that," said Graham, who has taken over for his father as the President of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association.

Graham's daughter, Anne Graham Lotz, said that her father still prays that sinners will come to know Jesus Christ.

"He's not yet lost focus on the Gospel and reaching people for Christ," she told Premier. "My father is a very humble man, and I think that comes from his walk with God."

Graham was voted one of the most influential people in the world in 2014, making Gallup's list of Most Admired People in over 58 times in total. He came in fourth, tying with former President George W. Bush, according to NBC news.

RELATED NEWS:

1.6 million accept Christ in 2014 through Billy Graham ministries

Billy Graham comforts those who have lost loved ones

Miracles for Unbroken's Louis Zamperini go beyond his war camp survival

Billy Graham believes Jesus Christ is still the answer

New York Times critic sings praises of Billy Graham