Billy Graham and the Power of a Mission-Driven Leader

A note to young leaders.

The best leaders are mission-driven.

The American evangelist, Billy Graham (1918-2018) was one such leader. Over the course of more than six decades, he preached in person to over 200 million people across more than 185 countries.

Even during something as mundane as a microphone check, Graham stayed on mission. While others might mumble “Testing, 1, 2, 3” – he would recite one of his favourite Bible verses, such as: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

Even if the only person listening was a sound technician, Graham never wanted to miss an opportunity to advance his mission.

And as the crowds and the applause multiplied, Graham stayed grounded by reminding himself that he was merely the messenger.

“The applause is not for me”, he would say, “I’m only the donkey.”

He was referring to Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem, riding on a donkey – crowds cheering, laying down cloaks, waving palm branches.

In Graham’s humorous retelling, the donkey, puffed up with pride, boasted to another donkey: “You’ll never guess what happened to me today. As I was coming into town, everyone bowed down. They all shouted, ‘Hosanna in the highest!’ – it’s about time I got the respect I deserve.”

You’re just the donkey, silly. Leadership is all about the mission.