Advent is the celebration of the Incarnation. God descends to Earth as a human being in order to die, only to rise again and ascend in immortal glory. The Incarnation is the blazing center of human history. It is the hinge upon which everything turns. It is the first thaw after a long frozen winter, … [Read More…] December 10, 2023
Sometimes in a movie, the scenes cut back and forth between two different characters in what appears to be two distinct plotlines…only for their storylines to suddenly merge unexpectedly. Something like that is happening in our text this morning. We’ve met Zechariah and Elizabeth, and rejoiced with them when the angel Gabriel told them … [Read More…] The World Turned Upside-Down
This Sunday is the official beginning of Advent. Advent means “arriving,” and is the celebration of the coming of Jesus. During the four weeks of Advent, we will be lighting candles on the Advent wreath, which is full of traditional symbolism. In case you’re less familiar with these traditions, here’s a brief overview. The … [Read More…] December 3, 2023
Dr. Luke is documenting for us the life and times of Jesus. But it’s interesting that he doesn’t start with Jesus. Instead, his gospel begins with a scene in the Temple, as an aged priest lights the incense, and an angel named Gabriel appears to him announcing that he and his wife of many childless … [Read More…] Conceiving Hope
Dear Moody Church Family, Scripture teaches that money can be a tool for human flourishing when used appropriately. It also warns us of the spiritual bondage that can happen when our hearts become consumed by money. Cultivating a heart of generosity will radically shape your worldview. Jesus taught us to give ourselves away … [Read More…] November 2023 Stewardship Letter
We live in anxious times; it’s a world of worry out there. Are you struggling to sleep at night due to anxiety? Are you fearful of what may happen in the future? Psalm 127:1–2 is a beautiful reminder of how God’s beloved children can find peace from a world full of worry. In this … [Read More…] God’s Perspective and Our Anxiety
You may have seen the “Evangelical Statement in Support of Israel” a number of us released this week. I’ve shared it below, in case you missed it. Please be fervent in prayer. In the wake of the evil and indefensible atrocities now committed against the people of Israel by Hamas, we, the undersigned, unequivocally … [Read More…] October 15, 2023
One the of hardest moments for those of us who are trying to live God’s way comes when those who couldn’t care less about God’s way end up coming out ahead in life. What’s the point in righteous living, if the unrighteous are the ones getting ahead in life? That’s exactly where God’s people … [Read More…] Relinquishing Righteousness
This past week we’ve been celebrating the birthdays of two of our former Senior Pastors here at The Moody Church. On Sunday, October 1st, Pastor George Sweeting celebrated his 99th birthday! I had the joy of speaking with him and his precious Hilda on the phone. We reminisced about his days as Pastor here … [Read More…] October 8, 2023
Dear Moody Church Family, In Matthew 20:26–28, Jesus teaches that those who aspire to greatness must become servants. We have all been given time, talent, and treasure to steward for God’s kingdom. While we often think of stewardship as a financial responsibility, Jesus also calls us to use our time and talent to impact … [Read More…] October 2023 Stewardship Letter
