A Story That Bridges Hearts and Faith
When Mike Cleveland set out to write The Broken Bridge, he had no idea it would become one of the most emotionally transformative experiences of his life. After nearly two decades as a pastor—preaching and teaching about the life-changing power of the gospel—Mike realized storytelling had a unique way of reaching deep into hearts. Something about stories resonated, touching areas of the human spirit sermons sometimes missed.
As the pages of The Broken Bridge filled, Mike often found himself in tears—not tears of sadness, but of awe. The unfolding allegory, particularly Fidel and Verita’s unwavering devotion despite a seemingly impossible divide, vividly mirrored Christ’s unwavering love for His church. Their nightly signals across the darkness echoed prayers sent into the void, faithfully answered by a love that never stops calling back.
Crafting a Tale of Love and Redemption
The concept for The Broken Bridge arose during a tough season for Mike’s community. Various methods—law, knowledge, rituals, service, positive thinking, self-transformation—had all been tried earnestly. Yet each, though sincere and holding a grain of truth, fell short. This cycle wasn’t new; history continually repeats itself. Mike realized this truth needed to be expressed in a new way, through story, emphasizing that no human effort alone can bridge our deepest divides.
The six failed bridge-builders featured in his novel aren’t villains at all. They’re earnest, each bringing something genuine to the table. But Mike uses their attempts to demonstrate the deeper truth—that only sacrificial, selfless love can span the distance that separates us from what we truly need.
Writing the character of Geshriel became both a sacred and challenging task for Mike. Portraying Christ’s profound love without losing its powerful mystery required him to prayerfully write each scene. Particularly emotional were moments depicting Geshriel’s suffering and sacrifice. Mike’s tears flowed freely—not from sadness, but from the overwhelming beauty of Christ-like love that flowed through his narrative.
The Symbolism Behind the Story
Even the story’s timeframe—seven long years of separation—held deep meaning. Seven, symbolizing completion in the Bible, underscored the significance of Fidel and Verita’s eventual reunion. Each night’s faithful signaling symbolized every whispered prayer, every steadfast hope held against doubt, and every heart that chose love despite seeming silence or absence.
Through this powerful allegory, Mike’s hope is clear: to help readers experience the transformative love of Jesus. His purpose, whether preaching from a pulpit or crafting a fictional world, remains unchanged. He desires that every reader sees themselves within this story, whether it’s in Fidel’s faithful waiting, the community’s repeated disappointments, or the well-intentioned but insufficient efforts of the builders.
The Gospel’s Transformative Power
At its heart, The Broken Bridge beautifully illustrates Mike’s core belief—that the gospel is the ultimate power capable of bridging even life’s widest chasms. Whether communicated through direct preaching or woven subtly into narrative form, the gospel retains its unique ability to heal, transform, and unite.
Mike Cleveland brings two decades of pastoral care and life experience into his storytelling. Having founded Setting Captives Free Ministries in 2000, he continues to impact lives globally through his teachings and now, through powerful narrative allegory. Married since 1998 to his wife Jody, they treasure their seven children and four grandchildren, living a life that authentically reflects the message they share.
When Mike isn’t penning stories or preaching, you’ll likely find him hiking the beautiful trails of the Pacific Northwest or spending cherished time with his family. Through each page, each character, and each moment in The Broken Bridge, Mike invites readers into a deeper understanding of love’s true power—reminding us that there’s a love strong enough to bridge every divide.