Enjoy the Glory

I received an e-mail with some sad news today. Pastor Harry Heidebrecht -- the man who introduced me to Christ as a young boy, shepherded the church where I grew up, and has been one of my heroes over the years -- passed away this morning. Apparently he was in the hospital for knee cap replacement surgery. This morning, he was doing fine, sitting up and having breakfast. A short time later the nurse had to call a code blue. They called his family to come, but he passed away very quickly. Sometime between 7:30 and 8:00 AM, Pastor Harry entered glory.

Over the years, God has given me some unique moments to connect with Pastor Harry in unexpected settings, including bumping into him (twice!) at an event in Atlanta, and being able to introduce him to my wife and kids when he visited Compass (on the only Sunday I came to worship there after taking my leave and then resigning -- God has the most amazing sense of timing!).

Harry was an incredible shepherd with a wonderful, warm heart. The fact that so many of his flock have stayed in touch with each other over the decades and could connect so quickly today is a testament to his legacy. His gentleness and Christ-like spirit have had a huge impact on many lives, and he will be deeply missed.

Enjoy the glory, Pastor. And thank you. I'm a shepherd today because of your inspiration.