There are not too many people that you encounter in life that leave an indelible mark on you, but I can honestly say that Femi Osideko was certainly one of them. He was one of a trio of leaders that I met as a first year student in Medilag (the College of Medicine campus of the University of Lagos). The other 2 were Yemi Amusan, Femi's deputy and Kunle Badmus.
The year that I met Femi Osideko (1990), I was a young believer, having just become born again on February 8 of the same year.
One of the first things that struck me about the fellowship that he pastored was the love that emanated from him and his team, which also permeated the congregation. These folks didn't just preach love. They lived it the best they could by the power of the Holy Spirit!!
The other thing that I found interesting was that as a 20 year old, I had been a Christian less than a year, but Femi, Yemi and Kunle, if memory serves me well, had been Christians for longer, having been saved in high school, and here they were teaching us the Word. I had different relationships with all 3 men, but at the heart of it, Femi Osideko was my pastor.
I'm completely overwhelmed at how God took a young man, poured His Spirit on him, elevated him to the position of pastor over his peers, gave him the wisdom to shepherd that flock with all the attendant responsibilities, and somehow Femi managed to get through school, and graduate as a doctor!! That can only be done by the grace, power and anointing of the Holy Spirit.
Femi was a kind hearted person, who took the time to sit with you and minister to your needs, whether it was just to say hello, provide counsel or encouragement or celebrate you. I don't remember him ever chastising anyone (which he probably did in private) or speaking publicly about his struggles, unless it was necessary as a teachable moment. He always seemed to put the needs of others ahead of his.
Femi was also a great teacher of the Word. As a young believer, I was drawn to his teaching style, and his ability to make complex, abstract biblical subjects simple and easy to digest. The fellowship that he pastored, Loveward Fellowship, was my training ground on the Bible and the life of a Christian. It was there that I was introduced to the Holy Spirit, got baptized in Him, learned to pray, became a cell group leader, learned to evangelize...I can go on and on. Don't get me started with the activities on the "field." Some of my most cherished and intimate sessions praying and worshipping occurred on that field, because Femi and his team encouraged us to pray.
As I write this, I realize that not everyone will have the patience to read through, so I must stop, because I'm ad libbing. There honestly isn't enough room here to share the extent of the impact of Femi Osideko in my life, but he was truly a remarkable human being.
I will miss him dearly, but as I tear up while writing this, I'm comforted at the fact that he fulfilled his purpose on earth. He leaves behind a strong legacy of love, service and the Word of God as the absolute authority on this side of eternity.
Good night Pastor Femi, till we meet again!
