It was February 1964.
Cassius Clay (who would later change his name to Muhammad Ali) was relatively unknown.
The Beatles were just becoming known in the United States.
Both were about to make history and be called “the greatest.” But that would come later.
The Beatles were relaxing in Florida and asked to meet the heavyweight champion of the world, Sonny Liston.
Liston had no interest so he declined, calling the four musicians “sissies” and “bums.”
The Beatles were then taken to meet Liston’s upcoming challenger who was preparing to fight Liston. His name was Cassius Clay.
Clay welcomed the four young musicians. If you search Google, you’ll find the photo shots of Clay (Ali) and The Beatles which were taken that day.
When The Beatles left Clay that day, it’s reported that Clay replied, “Who were those sissies?”
Not long after, Ali would be hailed as the greatest boxer in history. And The Beatles would be hailed as the greatest pop rock band in history.
Sonny Liston had the chance to be in the presence of greatness, but he let it pass by.
Ali didn’t miss the chance, even though he had no idea that he was in the presence of greatness when The Beatles met him. And The Beatles had no idea that they were in the presence of greatness either.
Lesson: Most Christians, when they have an opportunity to be among greatness, don’t recognize it and let it slip by.
Don’t make that mistake.
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