Field Ministries Representative / Chisago County, Minnesota

What is unique to your role at The Friends of Israel?

I am grateful for the life experiences that have helped me communicate with a wide range of people. These moments have allowed me to build relationships rooted in God’s truth and love, even among those who may seem vastly different from one another. I strive to offer kindness, respect, understanding, and compassion, especially to those facing difficult challenges like antisemitism, which continues to explode in the United States and the world. By doing my best to foster these values, I hope to help bridge divides and support people through affliction, keeping God’s truth and love at the heart of each interaction.

What inspires you most to do what you do for FOI?

It is essential to refuse to let fear of the unknown dictate the choices we make. Instead, we are called to rely on God’s truth, trusting that it will always triumph, even in the face of evil and uncertainty in the world. With confidence in God’s prevailing truth, there is a deep desire to educate others about the hope that is found and grounded in Israel. This includes sharing the command to love Israel and helping people understand the vital significance that Israel and the Jewish people hold for our collective future.

What is one bit of wisdom you have for those who want to share the love of the Messiah with others?

Planting seeds of God’s truth is a process that calls for tremendous patience, especially when starting with trodden ground. Often, the soil—representing hearts and minds—must be carefully amended and prepared so that the seeds can take root and become viable. This preparation may require time, effort, and a willingness to nurture even when progress seems slow. Every garden is unique; some may flourish sooner than others, while some require ongoing attention and precious care before growth is evident. The true Gardener understands the importance of perseverance, trusting that patient cultivation will eventually yield fruit and flourishing in God’s time.

What Scripture compels you the most to do what you do?

It's hard to choose just a few, but these verses inspire me to live in a way that pleases God.

• • He said, “I love You, O Yahweh, my strength.‘Yahweh is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, My God, my rock, in whom I take refuge; my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.’” Psalm 18:1–2, LSB

  • ‘“Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of the prophecy and keeps the things which are written in it, for the time is near.” Revelation 1:3, LSB.  

  • “For there will be peace for the seed: the vine will yield its fruit, the land will yield its produce, and the heavens will give their dew; and I will cause the remnant of this people to inherit all these things. And it will be that just as you were a curse among the nations, O house of Judah and house of Israel, so I will save you that you may become a blessing. Do not fear; let your hands be strong.”  Zechariah 8:12–13, LSB

Who is the most influential person in your spiritual life?

Through his teachings and letters, Paul clarified foundational aspects of Christian belief, helping me to grasp essential truths rooted in Scripture. The life and legacy of the apostle Paul continue to provide invaluable insight into understanding the Bible, especially in the areas of doctrine and theology. Paul’s journey was marked by numerous obstacles, yet his unwavering perseverance serves as a powerful example. Despite facing hardship, persecution, and adversity, Paul remained steadfast in his faith and mission. His resilience is inspirational and encourages me to continually rely on God’s strength and truth no matter what or whom I am face to face with.

What books have you read (other than the Bible) that have impacted your spiritual life most?

Several books have played a significant role in shaping my understanding and perspectives. Margin by Richard A. Swenson, MD has helped me appreciate the utmost importance of creating space in life for rest, reflection, and relationships. Concise Theology by J I Packer has provided clear and accessible insights into foundational biblical truth; deepening my grasp of doctrine and theology. When a Nation Forgets God by Erwin Lutzer offers a compelling reminder of the consequences that arise when society drifts away from God ordained principles. These works, among many others, have contributed meaningfully to my spiritual growth and continue to inspire me as I strive to live a life aligned with God’s truth.

Project Code: SU114