William Franklin Graham, Jr., was born November 7, 1918. Nobody knew then that Billy Graham would grow up to become on the most recognized names in history, preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ to over two billion people in his lifetime thus far. Of course, it never was really about Billy—it was about Jesus—and that’s what helped his ministry grow before, during, and after an era where big-named and big-haired preachers were becoming big-time disgraces to the Gospel.

Billy Graham began his ministry on a good note—at least in my book. He was denied membership in a local youth group because he was perceived as “too worldly.” His disdain for the legalism of Bob Jones College nearly led to him being expelled, but he ended up transferring instead, eventually receiving a diploma in Biblical Studies from Florida Bible Institute and a BA in Anthropology from Wheaton in 1943. He rose to prominence in 1949 during his Los Angeles crusade and over the following sixty some years, God has worked in Graham’s life to bring the gospel to the world.

Having begun his ministry with a book aimed towards youth (Calling Youth to Christ, 1947) and preached the gospel to all ages throughout his career, it seems fitting that Graham would ostensibly end his writing career with a book devoted to aging well. After all, as he says, he has some experience in the matter. Nearing Home is about finishing the race of life well, preparing for retirement, and dealing with old age. And like classic Billy Graham, the gospel message rings loudly and truly throughout.

To the young, he writes of the inevitability of old age. To the middle aged, he writes about preparing for retirement and finding contentment in the next stage of life. To the aged, he writes of finding purpose and meaning in a life in decline.

All my life I was taught how to die as a Christian, but no one ever taught me how I ought to live in the years before I die.

Graham’s statement is very true. The Christian life isn’t about gaining salvation and then waiting to die in order to attain it, but about living in the now power of the gospel—a realization that we have already died to this world and now live as ambassadors of Christ, citizens of heaven. As we pass our years of being physically and mentally healthy and can no longer do all things that we once considered major parts of life, we can wonder what this world has left to offer us. Graham, in his inimitable style, offers us thoughts on living well in the latter years from someone who has struggled to do just that and continues to do so.

Nearing Home is a great resource for those of all ages, but especially those who are finding themselves in the latter years of life and wondering what God’s purpose for them is.