My ideal description of myself would be that I’m a follower of Jesus, a devoted husband, a loving father, a loyal friend, and a passionate pastor. While I trust all those are true of me, the reality is that I’ve also gotta claim the descriptor of a broken sinner. Although I wish I could part ways with that title, the fact remains that as a human being I’m stuck with it (and so are you). But here’s the good news: while that may describe us, it by no means defines us because of God’s grace. So I guess the best way I can put it is that I’m a prime example of someone who, although broken, is daily leaning into the incredible truth that I’m beloved by God.
My goal with this blog is to be real. Too often pastors have a hard time connecting with people because we don’t seem relatable (sometimes justified, sometimes not). I’d have to say that one of the greatest things I can be told as a pastor is that I’m “real”, which simply means that others can relate to me. This isn’t always the case for pastors given that we’ve historically been granted the title “reverend”, which means worthy of reverence (honor or respect). Now while I absolutely believe that being a pastor is a high calling and that pastors should seek to be godly, what I want is to be regarded as “real” because that’s what will truly open the door for me to be able to share about Jesus.
I’m using the handle “Rev in Real Life” because I intend to speak to matters of faith in real life. I promise to do my part to be authentic, and I welcome your authentic responses in return. This whole authentic thing is so important to me because I believe that the only way for Jesus to take root in hearts is when we’re real about our brokenness and recognize that He’s our only Way to healing and wholeness. My hope is that my words resonate and point you to God’s amazing grace.
I currently live in western Wisconsin with my beautiful wife, Marisa, two amazing little boys, Emmaus and Grayson, and our dog, Izzy.
Click here to see my sermons.
Rev in Real Life 
Welcome from Longview, WA!! I’m on the Call Committee and came to check out a sermon. Your family looks so happy! Cynthia
Thanks Cynthia, pleasure to meet you:)
I enjoyed the sermon on Acts 13 and 14, it fits with our current sermons as Pastor Dave is up to Acts 2. Challenging the congregation to step out to talk to others about their faith is what we are doing at ELC. Cynthia
Thanks again, Cynthia! I’m glad you enjoyed it, and even more glad that you’re all being challenged to do that at ELC. I saw from the website that you’re working through Acts…very exciting! Blessings
Congratulations on birth of Aubrey, we are all excited for your family!! Cynthia Gaertner
Thank you Cynthia!
I am a helper with the Alpha course starting at ELC on the20th. Rick from the call committee and his wife are leaders. Pray for us and follow along at U tube at Alpha USA. See you on Monday. Cynthia
Very cool, Cynthia! I will definitely check that out. See you tonight!
Heard many positive comments about your visit and wishes the call process were quicker. I know God works in his time and we are all patient and praying for you. Cynthia
Thanks Cynthia! I agree on all accounts:)
Great meeting you in person. Really enjoyed your visit, the sermon, the potluck time. Looking forward to wrapping up this process. Soon hopefully!
Past the Annual meeting, almost overwhelming agreement to call you. Meeting next Tuesday to draft the Letter of Call. Progress!! cynthiaknits2@gmail.com