Sandy: A Heart for God

by Leighton Ford

Leighton Ford tells a story of uncertainty, hope, sorrow and joy as his oldest son, Sandy, faced a rare and life-threatening heart disease.

Genres: Biography

180 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1985

About the author

Leighton Ford is president of Leighton Ford Ministries. He served for many years as an evangelist with Billy Graham, and was featured as the alternate speaker to Billy Graham on the Hour of Decision broadcast. He also served for nearly twenty years as chairman of the Lausanne Committee for World Evangelization, an international body of Christian leaders, and for many years has mentored emerging leaders all over the world. The author or coauthor of numerous books, including Transforming Leadership and The Attentive Life, Ford lives in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Reviews

[David · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is Leighton Ford's emotionally-honest account of the life of his son, who suffered with an unusual heart defect which would take his (earthly) life in his early twenties. Besides the many interesting insights into growing up American, talented and Christian, one aspect which stands out is the interplay of Sandy's pursuit for God with his intensity and relentless work ethic. The author writes with great openness about the events leading up to Sandy's death, moving the reader to grapple with the question: why does a loving God take the lives of some Christians early?

For me, this book has been a formative read.

[Diane Fournier · Rating 5 out of 5]

I put this book down and cried my eyes out. Such a tragedy to such a good family. Reflecting on loss and the reasons for it, along with the strong faith story moved my heart. I did not think a father could tell the story of his son with accuracy but the supporting letters, journals and stories from Sandy's friends made it feel believable. As any parent would tell the great things about their child Sandy was a young man to be proud of. Uncovers some scars and builds faith while questioning why? Read it all the way to the end to get the full benefit of this incredible story.