A friend of mine recently reminded me that Francis Schaeffer died 30 years ago this month. As one of many people who were powerfully influenced by this remarkable man, I want to give a brief tribute to Dr. Schaeffer.

In the late 60’s and early 70’s Marilyn and I had the privilege of studying and working at the Schaeffer’s retreat in Switzerland, L’Abri Fellowship.  Like so many of our generation, it was a life-changing experience.

Years later I heard Dr. Schaeffer speak at Biola University a few weeks before he died. His body was losing its battle with cancer.  He was frail, but his spirit remained strong. He challenged the Biola faculty and students to live a life before the Lord that would shape history.

Schaeffer posed a question at that event that still echoes in my mind.

“People ask ‘What are you doing here?’ They tell me I should be home in bed. But, our lives count for something in this broken world. As long as I have breath in my body, I want to represent Christ.”

I will never forget that moment or those words. His voice was physically weak, but it issued a clarion call to all who would hear.

Thank you, Francis Schaeffer,  for your life. Thank you for teaching me to live by the way you died.

My friend also linked this tribute from Ray Ortlund at the Gospel Coalition which I commend for your reading.

–          Darrow Miller

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