Remembering Mike

One of my heroes in the faith, Mike Fechner, http://mikefechner.com/ went home to be with Jesus Wednesday night. He suffered from the physical devastation of cancer, but nothing else. His reward is now complete.

Mike was a man who lived his faith large. He was visionary, inspiring, and one of the most genuinely passionate men concerning the gospel and those in need than any person I knew. He was the founder of H.I.S. Bridgebuilders - a ministry of the gospel of Jesus with the added blessing of hope, help, and on-going love to those in need and at greatest risk.  I will miss Mike, but smile knowing that Heaven is one 'Saint' sweeter today. He is with Jesus.  What more might he want.

The first time I met Mike was on a visit with Molly Breitenfeld, who took me to his Bridge Builders Headquarters so that I might see what this ministry was all about. Through this union, Molly led our youth ministry to partner with Mike and Bridgebuilders and its work in South Dallas. There I met this one time businessman called by God to make a difference in a ministry that did not seem to so readily resonate with what one thinks of for a person of his background, talents and gifts. To this end, Mike inspired me - reminding me that when God calls us to do something He also enables us with the tools and wherewithal to get it done. Yes, Mike was the perfect person to brdge the wealth of north Dallas with the needs of its south.  From that short meeting a mutual friendship and respect was born - not one of frequent contact but one of partnership - a partnership in the gospel that makes one a life-long brother. A common, glorious bond connecting us with an ageless line of others who have also known and followed the tug of God upon their heart and said, 'yes, send me.'

The last time I saw Mike was as he was sitting next to me at a meeting on DBU campus this past winter. We were serving together on a steering committee team to fill tables and seek support for the university while honoring Gil Strickland at a coming banquet. I mentioned to Mike that I had an idea for a church revitalization project in near East Dallas. I said, 'Mike, this area and work are right up your alley.' 'I'd love to show it to you.' 'Let's get some lunch!' he said, and so, our schedules were set - but... that lunch was never to be, as Mike's health worsened and we had to cancel.

With the passing of someone like Mike it's easy to wonder who will take their place. I used to worry over this, feeling as if I had to do something personally in order to insure this happened. But no longer. For I see God doing the same thing as he did in Mike's life in the lives of people every single day. I see Him calling out the called.  Speaking to hearts, planting dreams, and casting forth vision of what it is He wants to do as he inspires a new generation to, by faith, live life large.

Mike said, yes. He lived large and saw God change many lives - including his own. Will you?  

For a beautiful look at Mike and the victory he found, even in the midst of this last earthly battle, check this out.  http://vimeo.com/90788853


Pastor Sam