I came from a broken home and was lonely much of the time. As did so many others of my generation, I bought into the idea that drugs might contain some of the answers I was looking for, so I could truly find myself. At a very early age, I found myself asking the big questions: What is the meaning of life? Why am I here? And the one that really kept me up nights: What will happen after I die?

Although I felt certain that Jesus was out there somewhere, I certainly did not think He was interested in me or my problems. But one day, on my high-school campus, I sat close enough to a Bible study to overhear what was being said without looking like one of the group. I don’t remember much of what was said that day except for one statement: Jesus said, “You are either for Me or against Me.” What side are you on?

That really struck me. Before I knew quite what was happening, I was praying to receive Jesus Christ into my heart and life. Since that day in 1970, I have pastored a church and written a number of books as well as preached in evangelistic events we hold called Harvest Crusades.

Growing up, it was my dream to one day become a professional cartoonist, but God opened up a different plan for my life, and I’m glad he did. I hope you will allow God to use you to further His kingdom as well.

Born in: 1952
Birthplace: Long Beach, CA
Pastor since: 1971
Previous work: Graphic Designer
Favorite verse: Jeremiah 29:11
Married to: Cathe
Married since: 1974
Children: Christopher, Jonathan
Grandchildren: Stella, Lucy, Rylie, Alexandra, Christopher