In 2022, I came to Faith Lutheran Church and became an Iowa resident again for the first time since 7th grade. In between, I studied history in college, then Bible translation and theology in graduate school and seminary. God has developed me through teaching at Moody Bible Institute in Chicago, editing Christian books in Minneapolis, selling Christian books in California and serving as a pastor in California and Virginia.

I grew up loving Jesus, but I did not know if I was going to heaven. When I was ten years old, my parents drove me to Minneapolis to listen to Billy Graham preach. That night a counselor showed me a couple Bible verses that God used to help me: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9). And, “I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life.” (1 John 5:13). From that night I have understood that I am forgiven and belong to Jesus. I know that I have eternal life in Jesus Christ.

Around our community, you may catch me on a bike path, swimming at the YMCA, cheering at a youth sports event or sipping coffee with friends. At home, you might catch me reading or writing.

Here’s the hardest question I was given: What do you love most about being a pastor at Faith? The first word that comes to mind is: “Everything.” I love to see people worship—with a smile or tears, to see friends encouraging and caring for each other in hardship, to help people take new steps in trusting and serving Jesus. Our congregation is remarkable at welcoming new people and giving them opportunities to serve. I also delight in helping people discover meaningful relationships, fulfillment in their work, and freedom from life’s negative baggage.

Quirky fact: There is not photographic evidence of the day I singed my eyebrows in Pakistan, but I can show you how not to do it to yourself.