I was barely out of my teens when I first heard of this great man of God, David Wilkerson.
I was staying with my Auntie P when I read his book, "The Cross and the Switchblade." He was to have a profound impact on my life and that of my hubby. We always considered him to be a mentor.
David Wilkerson was a country preacher in Pennsylvania who was called to New York City in 1958 to minister to drug addicts and gang members. It was out of his deep love and concern for these individuals that he wrote, "The Cross and the Switchblade," which was later made into a movie by the same name.
He founded World Challenge, Inc. in 1971 and Times Square Church in New York City in 1986.
His heart was broken over the prostitutes, pimps, runaways, drug addicts, hustlers, and X-rated movie houses he saw as he walked down 42nd street one night at midnight.
Out of his broken heart, a ministry was born.
My heart goes out to his family. The world has suffered a great loss but he will be remembered!
"Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His godly ones." ~ Psalms 116:15
Sharing from my heart~ Sandi
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Hi Sandi, I too remember this great man of God and his book "The Cross and the Switchblade" that was also made into a movie. I saw his death posted on Facebook last night. Such a tragic end to a remarkable life but we know he is with our Lord and Savior now. Thank you for this tribute post today. God bless. Pamela
ReplyDeleteSandi,
ReplyDeleteThat was a lovely tribute. When I heard this news today I was saddened but, like you, I am happy for him.
The death of a saint is a wonderful transition to life that never ends.
Becky K.
What a powerful and impacting ministry. Thanks for sharing about his passing. xo Debra
ReplyDeleteNicki Cruz has his headquarters in Colorado Springs and David's son recently started a church here also. Truly a great man of God.
ReplyDeleteSandi, I read about his passing yesterday.
ReplyDeleteI remember seeing the movie The Cross and the Switchblade when I was a little girl.
The movie theater even had an actual altar call after the movie was shown. I remember seeing people go into a back room for prayer.
Appreciate this post.
God bless,
d
Dear Sandi,
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for your post honoring a truly great man. I love David Wilkerson - his impact on lives is eternal and he will be missed tremendously.
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Concetta
Hi Sandi,
ReplyDeleteI read about his passing, when I was looking at some Facebook stuff on my cellphone. My dad was really sad to learn about his passing. I've been hearing talk about him in many Christian circles. What an impact his life has had on so many!!1 Thanks for sharing this. Love and hugs from Oregon, Heather :)
Sandi:
ReplyDeleteDavid Wilkerson impacted the young and the old and those who needed God's saving grace. His book and story came at a crucial time in my life too as I dealt with young men and women who were involved in drugs. He gave me hope that my work was not in vain.
Thanks for letting us know of his passing into His reward.
Auntie P
If the Bible was being written today, no doubt he would be listed as a hero of faith. His books, sermons, pastor's conferences, newsletters, and daily devotions has impacted my life since I was 15 years old. And I am just one among millions. "Well done thou good and faith servant."
ReplyDeleteSandi, Beautiful tribute, beautiful blog. Have a blessed week. Sunny109
ReplyDeleteI met Dave Wilkerson in the early 1970s. He was in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. A Bible study friend worked for the Star Telegram in FW, and she took me with her to interview him before his Christian Rally. What a kind, wonderful, young man. It saddens me to know he is gone.
ReplyDeleteLinda in Granbury, Texas