Where are they now? JAMES KRAMER

Name:                                       James Kramer

Where do you live?                 Bend, Oregon

What years did you quiz?      1987 to 1996 (plus 4 years in the adult division)

For what team/church?           Willamina, Oregon

What is your occupation/vocation/passion?

My wife and I lead a Christian Kingdom-minded, Spirit-fueled creative agency that promotes people, brands, ministries and organizations into greater spheres of influence in culture. We believe that Christians should be preeminent in our industries and we believe that God is the source of all creativity. As such, we should be releasing creativity, technologies, innovations, designs, strategies, new models and new revenue streams that the world hasn’t even thought of. 

We own an advertising agency (www.pneuma33.com), a media platform (www.worldchangermag.com), an investment fund (www.psalm6835.com) and a holdings company (Beulah Capital). We leverage all of these for one purpose – to advance the Kingdom by transforming culture.

Memorable accomplishment from your quizzing years:

Our entire youth group of 50+ all experienced a radical transformation through an encounter with Jesus. Most of us are still walking passionately with Jesus. Many of my most treasured friendships even still have come through Bible Quizzing.     

Also, competing at regional and national levels was a life-altering event for me and taught me how to go after greatness.

How has Bible Quizzing helped you become who you are today?

I learned how to build relationships quickly, become a leader, study the scriptures, articulate a clear communication of my convictions, and compete in a godly way. I also learned the exhilaration of victory and the struggle of defeat. Both of those were vital for me to become a man, a leader, a boss, and a healthy and whole person.

What coaches or quizzing leaders had a lasting effect on your life?  How are you better for having known them?

My mom, Rita Kramer, was the single greatest example of a powerful leader, a lover of Jesus, a coach, a friend, and an encourager. She was invested in every way possible in the lives of every quizzer and coach in the Pacific Northwest. I’ve never known someone so completely lay their life down for people like she did and still does.

Are you involved in quizzing today?  How might you like or be willing to be involved?

I’m not currently involved. There isn’t a team in Central Oregon. When we have children, we’ll look for an opportunity to get them involved again.

What is a verse/Scripture that has stuck with you?

Philippians 1:6 – He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

Proverbs 22:29 – Do you see someone skilled in their work? They will serve before kings; they will not serve before officials of low rank.

Word to the Wise – any advice for our current quizzers?   What do you wish you had been told back then?

It’s possible to study and memorize the scriptures and still not have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to be with us and to guide us into His Presence. There is nothing worth more and nothing as precious as walking intimately with the Holy Spirit. In Him, we live and move and have our being. We can hear God’s voice and experience His Presence in every aspect of our lives. Once you taste of the Love of God, you’ll never be the same again. His Presence is everything we’re longing for and what we were made for. Invite the Holy Spirit to baptize you and transform you. We’re called to a supernatural life!