February 2, 2025

  • January 31, 2025
  • BY Sydney Bylsma
  • no responses

One of my great joys over the past couple years has been to serve in our AWANA program on Wednesday evenings with our Sparks. It’s such an encouragement to be a part of such an impactful ministry. There are three things in particular that stand out.   First, it’s amazing how hard our kids work … [Read More…] February 2, 2025

January 26, 2025

  • January 24, 2025
  • BY Sydney Bylsma
  • no responses

Here is another little nugget from my doctoral research I thought you’d enjoy. As you know, Harry Ironside served as our Senior Pastor from 1930 to 1948. Known across the country for his depth of teaching, his influence can still be felt to this day. It may come as a surprise that Ironside was never … [Read More…] January 26, 2025

January 19, 2025

  • January 17, 2025
  • BY Sydney Bylsma
  • 2 responses

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

January 12, 2025

  • January 10, 2025
  • BY Sydney Bylsma
  • no responses

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

January 5, 2025

  • January 3, 2025
  • BY Sydney Bylsma
  • no responses

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

December 29, 2024

  • December 27, 2024
  • BY Sydney Bylsma
  • no responses

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

December 22, 2024

  • December 20, 2024
  • BY Sydney Bylsma
  • 2 responses

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

December 15, 2024

  • December 13, 2024
  • BY Sydney Bylsma
  • no responses

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

December 8, 2024

  • December 6, 2024
  • BY Sydney Bylsma
  • no responses

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

December 1, 2024

  • November 29, 2024
  • BY Sydney Bylsma
  • no responses

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