Tuesday, February 27, 2007

WHAT A FEELING!

I saw an old movie yesterday. It reminded me of some work we did 20 years ago. Jackie Gleason was one of the actors. In 1987 he was interviewed on 60 Minutes and wept as he repeatedly expressed all he wanted in life was to know God; that he did not want to die and go to hell. He cried on tv and my tears streamed while watching him.

I asked Memorial to pray for Jackie Gleason and two days later an article came out in the Tulsa World stating Gleason was hospitalized and then the strangest thing.....it gave the hospital name, address and zip. I wrote Mr. Gleason a letter expressing my ideas about knowing Jesus and sent him one of my books.....registered mail. In a few days the signed green card returned. Ten days later he died.

Three weeks later I received this letter, Dear Mr. Rush. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you for your love, for your concern, and your book. Thank you for what you did for our man. The family of Jackie Gleason.

I never knew what we did for their man. I have always believed God clearly orchestrated a most amazing scenario for one bold enough to publically confess he was desperate for God. You cannot imagine the feeling which rushes through me when I see this man's films on television. I cannot imagine what it will be like to be greeted by him one day when all the "dust" is settled!

6 comments:

Hoots Musings said...

Terry,
I remember you telling the Jackie Gleason story one of the few times I have heard you speak. You stirring for his cry is the same stirring we all need to heed.

You inspire me and my husband and your example makes us want to be better. God Bless YOU!

Zack said...

Cool story Mr. Terry! I got goose bumps reading it. Thank you for sharing it with us. God bless!

Brenda said...

This is a great story. I have never heard it but I can't imagine God doing any less than this. He works in you so that others can see God through you in the most unforgetable ways. Thanks for sharing! Love you!

David U said...

God knew who to send Jackie's way as HIS messenger. The prophets always called God's children back to Him, therefore you for sure are a prophet.

DU

Stoogelover said...

That was one of the most amazing stories I ever heard you tell, and it hasn't lost any of it's punch! I've used your story several times to show people it's a matter of being available and having some courage to act, or better yet, to just be who we are supposed to be.

Liz Moore said...

This is an amazing story. You were Jesus with skin on to Jackie. I pray that God will continue to use you as a powerful vessel for Him.