Background
After working as a Doctor of Chiropractic in a large medical group and private practice for 15 years Jeff followed God’s leading and began serving in vocational ministry in 2004. Prior to joining A2 Jeff served for 2 years as a pastor at Saddleback Church on the Strategic Initiatives team and for 10 years was on the Ministry Advancement team with Open Doors. He joined the staff of A2 August 1st 2016.
Family:
I met Lynda the summer before going into the 8th grade when we were 12 years old. Who would have thought that 10 years later we’d be married! Now celebrating over 30 years together, God has blessed us with two married daughters, Megan and Maddison, two sons-in-law’s: Saul and Brad, and three grandkids, Abraham (6), Selah (4) and Adara (1). They are all God’s great treasures to us.
Ministry Assignment
Jeff is been serving as Vice President for Development since August 1, 2016.
What would you suggest for people who sense God may be calling them into ministry?
Pray-pray-pray, and then keep praying! I love a quote from the book “Seven Realities of Experiencing God” by Blackaby. One of those realities Blackaby writes is, “God’s invitation for me to work with Him always leads me to a crisis of belief that requires faith and action.”
I would suggest that someone sensing God’s calling ask themselves these questions:
- Am I running from anything?
- Do I think serving in cross-cultural missions would be easier than something else?
- Do I have an idealized view of working in missions?
- Am I willing to be stretched?
- Am I willing to sacrifice?
- Am I flexible?
- Is this the right time?
God’s calling rarely, if ever, ends up looking like I planned. It’s important to be flexible and open to His leading.
What would you like your "ultimate contributions" to be?
My ministry is equipping servant leaders. My mission is to Love God passionately and influence people positively.
What are some ministry methods or activities you find especially meaningful?
Always invite and make room for the Holy Spirit to work in the hearts and minds of people.
One of the most meaningful aspects is to work with ministry partners who have taught me so much about faith, servanthood, generosity, and what it looks like to be a cheerful, Spirit-led giver. Their witness has transformed my life to recognize that everything I own is His.
Can you share a funny ministry story or cultural mistake?
Sorry, it's too embarrassing to write!
What are some important lessons you've learned as you've served in ministry?
When it comes to ministry and relationships, I’ve come to value reconciliation over my need to be right.
What are some ways you're seeing God bless your life and ministry?
The more I step out in faith, the more I trust Him, the more He shows up!
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