I met the Navigators at Ball State University in the fall of 2020, as I pursued a career in pharmaceutical development. I had clear goals for my time at BSU. I wanted to get the grades, to get the internship, to get the job, to get the salary, to get an early retirement, to own the lake house. Without realizing it, my happiness, hope, purpose, and fulfillment were wrapped up in the idol of the quintessential American Dream.
Midway through my undergraduate years, Jesus painfully revealed these idols of success, comfort, and self-reliance. I was rocked by an identity crisis and a season of deep depression as everything I had placed my hope in crumbled in front of me. Yet through this purposeful suffering, the Spirit developed a passion in me to not only know Christ more for myself, but multiply my impact for the Kingdom through the lives of others. I took The Great Commission seriously for the first time in my life.
Having placed the foundation of my life firmly in Jesus Christ and his Kingdom, I saw the transforming power of the Gospel restore joy to my life. I began reading the Word more intently, praying more often, having spiritual conversations with others, and sharing the Gospel. In this process, there was an upperclassmen student, Grant, who faithfully discipled me week by week. Grant was instrumental in equipping me with practical tools to invite God into the darkest corners of my heart and begin to begin walking in obedience to Him.
Grant helped me realize that my story was not an isolated case. The transforming power of the Gospel is for everyone who accepts it! I'm passionate about being a "Grant" for other young men who need the Gospel just as much as I do each and every day. I pray to have the privilege to be a disciple maker for a lifetime.
I currently serve with the budding ministry at Purdue University as we re-pioneer the Navigators ministry on campus.