Connections Archive

Christel Price
Public relations editorial intern
Cooranbong, New South Wales, Australia

Andrew "Fishtail" Fisher races his V8 ute all over Australia thanks to the support of Jesus. Rather than seek sponsorship from a commercial company, Andrew supports a campaign to help Christians share their faith. He spoke about his ministry at forum on Avondale College's Lake Macquarie campus this past Wednesday (May 13).

"I was challenged as to whether I simply carry my Christianity as a backpack or whether I really pick up my cross each day," said Andrew. "This caused me to think about why I am involved in motor racing and what impact I make for the kingdom. My wife challenged me and said if you really want to make a statement, why don't you promote 'Jesus. All about life' [a campaign developed by Bible Society NSW] all over the car, 'that will let them know where you stand!'"

Andrew has made some difficult decisions since beginning his ministry. One was walking away from $120,000 worth of sponsorship. "This ministry is all about living in a community, getting to know people and taking your faith with you everywhere you go," said Andrew. "I gave God what I had and He picked it up and used it."

In August 2001, Andrew discovered his daughter had only half a heart-doctors said she would die. "I remember getting in my car and just crying out to God, saying, 'Take whatever you want; just give me the life of my daughter.' I realised I wasn't in control and that I needed God," said Andrew.

His daughter has survived and is now eight years old. "I know my daughter will die if she doesn't get a heart transplant," said Andrew. "There is no certainty in anything, but Jesus says, 'Trust me.' I've chosen to give my loaf and fishes to Jesus, and He has multiplied them."

The ministry has been running for 18 months, with Andrew now speaking almost every week at churches, conferences and schools.
Credit: Ann Stafford