Jerry Falwell

Yesterday, I posted about heroes and I thought it a bit ironic that yesterday morning one of those heroes went to be with the Lord...Jerry Falwell.

I must admit, I wasn't one of Jerry's biggest fans, I never read any of his books, I never listened to one of his messages, and often I was flabbergasted at his "talent" for speaking before thinking (which he apologized for many times). Despite all that, he was a man who in my opinion finished well in life, and here's why...

1. He had a vision/mission that he always stuck to and never wavered from, which I believe is the mark of a true leader.

2. He used his popularity, platform and media attention to always lift up the name of Jesus Christ.

3. His life was without scandal and he was faithful to his wife.

4. He had a mentor's heart. Many young singers, artists, business men/women, pastors and missionaries benefited from his influence through liberty university and other means.

5. Although his life is over, his influence is far from over. Great leaders continue to live beyond the grave.

I hope and pray that I handle the calling God has given me with the same integrity in which Jerry Falwell modeled his.

Psalms 116:15 says, "Precious in the sight of the Lord are the death of his saints."