Mike Clawson is the founding pastor of Via Christus, an emerging church in Yorkville, IL. He met his wife and co-pastor of Via Christus, Julie, at Wheaton College (Wheaton, IL) where he studied both Philosophy and Christian Education & Ministry, and also obtained a Masters in Missions/Intercultural Studies. Together they have a beautiful and energetic toddler named Emmaline Eowyn. Mike also co-coordinates up/rooted, the Emergent Village cohort for the greater Chicago area, which meets monthly to discuss theology, ministry, and social justice. His primary passion is to transform the lives of people and the whole world by pursuing Christ's way of justice, mercy and love in his everyday life.

Originally from the woods of Michigan where his parents served at several Christian camps/retreat centers, Mike enjoys horseback riding, hiking, and camping, as well as road trips with friends, traveling overseas, Renaissance Faires, and reading about ancient and medieval history. He also spends a lot of time blogging at emergingpensees.com, reading about theology and politics, and playing with Emma.

Mike feels that the best way to discover God's transforming truth is through conversation with others and with scripture. "Ask God is a great forum for sparking those kind of conversations," he says. "My hope is that viewers will take it beyond just watching the show; that they'll continue the discussion at home with their friends and family members. Or that they'll be inspired to pick up a book or find a good website on the topics that intrigue them."

He also appreciates the diverse viewpoints and differing perspectives that are able to be brought out on Ask God. "It's impossible to learn if you don't ever expose yourself to people who disagree with you. Truth is often complex, and listening to different points of view helps us discover our own blind spots. Humility is what is most important in these kind of conversations; going in with the assumption that you may not always be right and a willingness to learn from others."