I am truly excited and honored to be back at ACA and in Ankeny. Over twenty years ago, I taught Bible and Health at ACA. My experience at ACA was a blessing and highlight in my life. The chance to come back and be part of what others have labored so faithfully through the years was a God-led decision. To see where ACA was twenty years ago and be part of where God is leading us gives me a unique perspective. The one thing that I remember about ACA, which is still true today, is the emphasis on family. We desire to partner with families – past, present, and future to help develop disciples of Christ. This partnership with families is to prepare students for a life that seeks to honor and glorify God in all areas of their lives. Ultimately, it’s a life that’s all about Him.
I had the blessing of growing up in north central Indiana in a small community. At the age of 10, I asked Jesus into my heart after hearing a Keys for Kids family devotional explaining the difference between heaven and hell. Having grown up in a Christian home and going to church regularly, this was the first time I clearly knew and understood what Jesus did for my sins and how I can have a personal relationship with Him. That decision changed my life forever and I praise God for His grace and mercy.
My wife and I have personally experienced the treasure of Christian school education. We both graduated from a Christian school and our two adult children have graduated from a Christian school as well. Over the past twenty-five years, I have had the unique experience of serving as a pastor in four churches, business leadership, education, and Christian camp ministry. I graduated from Baptist Bible College in Pennsylvania, received my Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership from Clark Summit University, and I have been ordained.
A verse that has been special to me comes from 2 Corinthians 5:7 – “for we walk by faith, not by sight.” At the present we are “away from the Lord (v.6)” and our continual pursuit on this earth is to walk by faith daily. As long as I am away from the Lord, I must walk by faith in Him. That takes commitment on my part trusting and believing in Him and His perfect Word. My sight and the things I see will fail me – God will never fail me.