Jesse became a Christian at the age of 10 at a youth camp in Albuquerque. He responded to an altar call and was guided to commit his life to Christ through a kind and patient counselor. Jesse was saved, but the most dramatic change in his life didn’t come until later.

Jesse’s family moved to Los Alamos in 1976. In 1988, he graduated from Los Alamos High and then attended Adams State College in Alamosa, CO. Adams State is a serious runner’s school and the Lord had gifted Jesse with a love and talent for running. In his freshman year, Jesse took 3rd place in the 3000 meter steeplechase at the NAIA National Track and Field Championships. In his sophomore year he was part of the NAIA National Championship Cross-Country team. But in his junior year, Jesse became seriously troubled. He came to realize that running had consumed his life. His desire to serve Christ had taken a back seat. If he took his calling seriously, he would have to put his athletic goals aside. Soon after, he transferred to The Master’s College, Santa Clarita, CA, where he finished his degree in English.

In 1993, he married Shari Putman, whom he first met on the high school cross-country team (where else?) Jesse had first planned to attend The Master's Seminary but God closed this door, literally moving the earth, the ’94 Northridge earthquake, to block this avenue. Instead, God led Jesse to ministry immediately. Christ Community Bible Church was without a pastor at that time and Jesse was able to substantially contribute to the ministry. In the meantime, he worked at a variety of jobs including construction, teaching, and law enforcement.

During this time, God continued to nurture a desire in Jesse to serve Him more deeply. Jesse had felt the call to ministry when he was about 12 years old, after hearing Billy Huerta, a missionary, speak with passion. The call intensified during his career as a police officer. Here he saw first hand the difficulties people faced and their need for Christ. God finally opened the door in March, 2001 when Jesse became the youth pastor for Crossroads. He is most excited about discipling, challenging, and encouraging young people. Jesse challenges "Young people don't have to wait until they're adults to be serious about God, they can love Him and serve Him with passion right now!" Jesse is also active in the church’s missions support.

Jesse and Shari love their six children (Rebekah-12, Rachel-11, Ruth-10, J.T.-8, Jeremiah-4 and one on the way in Aug. 2007) and desire to lead them in godliness.