This week as the snow fell and the wind whipped between the buildings, I recalled the winter poem, “Pattern” by C.S. Lewis.   Some believe the slumber Of trees is in December When timber’s naked under sky And squirrel keeps his chamber.   But I believe their fibres Awake to life and labour When turbulence … [Read More…] January 19, 2025

As newly elected leaders begin their terms of service this month, it’s a good time to remember that God calls us to faithfully pray for our government officials. This includes ones we didn’t vote for. If you’re like me, you may appreciate a list. Here are 21 scriptural ways we ought to pray:   1.     Pray … [Read More…] January 12, 2025

This Sunday, we begin a new chapter in our study through the Gospel of Luke: “The Gathering Storm.” As Jesus is increasingly bold in His authoritative claims and His ministry impact grows to the point where it cannot be denied, the religious leaders decide they must forcefully shut Jesus down.   You can feel the … [Read More…] January 5, 2025

It’s hard to believe, but 2025 is just around the corner. It’s the season of New Year’s resolutions, and there’s no better way to begin using an intentional Bible reading plan. Here are a couple of options in case you’re interested: Available online and print: M’Cheyne’s Calendar for Daily Bible Readings – Over the course … [Read More…] December 29, 2024

This Sunday we’re looking forward to our Children’s Christmas program. It’s a memorable and special part of our Advent celebrations here at The Moody Church. I’m always touched by the hard work and sincere hearts of our kids as they lead us in worship and remind us of what Christmas is all about. I was … [Read More…] December 22, 2024

On December 16th, 1924 a group of leaders gathered to lay a cornerstone for a new building between Clark and LaSalle streets in Chicago. That building would become known as The Moody Church. On Monday, it will be the 100 year anniversary of that historic day.   Engraved on the cornerstone are these words: “Other … [Read More…] December 15, 2024

Winter came in with a blast this past week. The cold, hard days remind me of Christina Georgina Rossetti’s “In the Bleak Midwinter.” First published as a poem in 1872 and set to music as a hymn in 1906, Rossetti beautifully describes the inbreaking of God’s gracious hope in Jesus in a world so very … [Read More…] December 8, 2024

As we enter this season of Advent, we’re going to focus in on what theologians have called “The Threefold Office” of Christ: Prophet, Priest, and King. In the Old Testament, these three offices were held by different individuals, each of whom was anointed for their role. The prophets spoke the Word of God to the … [Read More…] December 1, 2024

As the years go by, I find that Thanksgiving brings an increased mingling of gladness and grief. There is so much grace present in our lives, and for this, our hearts rejoice with gratitude to the Giver of all good gifts. There are also the graces that have slipped through our fingers— joyous seasons and … [Read More…] November 24, 2024

I’ve been reflecting lately on how vital the Holy Spirit is to our understanding of the Scriptures. You know that every communication event involves an author, a text, and a reader. It turns out, God’s Holy Spirit is involved in all three. This makes the Scriptures unlike any other kind of communication, because of the … [Read More…] November 17, 2024