BOLD STEPS: Boldly Moving Forward

As we approach a new year, I think you’ll agree that 2020 has been a disruptive year.

We’ve had to navigate what I call the “crisis trilogy.” In mid-March a widespread pandemic swept through our nation, creating a health crisis. I personally know seven people who died of COVID-19 related illnesses. The second crisis came in the form of economic recession. Over 40 million people filed for unemployment and millions throughout our country were left jobless. The third crisis came in the form of social unrest and racial tensions that erupted in protests throughout our nation. Each of these three connected crises have had an impact on our staff, students, and partners and the way we do ministry.

However, we determined early on that in the midst of chaos and uncertainty we would not put our mission on pause. In fact, we purposed to look for opportunities to minister and boldly move forward even more intentionally during these chaotic times. Our teams in Education, Radio, and Publishing have done an outstanding job at pivoting and finding ways to minister to people’s anxiety, fear, and turmoil. Despite the huge challenges, we have been able to say with the psalmist, my “heart is firm, trusting in the Lord” (Psalm 112:7).

Our focus remains steadfast on asking the Lord to double our impact by 2030.

As we boldly move forward in this season, I find myself encouraged and inspired by the early church in Acts 8. Even in the midst of their challenging season where they dealt with persecution, the believers did not put their calling on hold. Luke tells us, “Now those who were scattered went about preaching the Word.” These passionate men and women of God who loved King Jesus boldly moved forward in their calling, and God blessed their efforts by adding more and more to the church.

We are happy to inform you that our Chicago campus redevelopment initiative is moving forward. Over the summer, as part of our strategic 2030 vision, we announced a contract with a well-respected Chicago developer to purchase and develop eight acres of our noncore land. The Lord also graciously provided a buyer for Jenkins Hall in a separate transaction. The proceeds from these sales will provide crucial financial resources to modernize our campus for the 21st century and fund endowments needed for laying the strong foundation to build toward our 2030 vision. For the latest news and information about our Chicago campus redevelopment initiative, stay tuned to moodybible.org/news.

As new students arrived on campus this fall, I spent time speaking to parents and students in the Plaza about their journey to Moody. I walked away energized and inspired by the sense of calling, passion, and conviction I see in these students. We have been pleasantly surprised by our enrollment numbers during this turbulent time. We have strengthened our commitment to train these men and women to live on mission for Jesus, regardless of where they get their paycheck when they graduate.

Dee and I are very grateful for your prayers and encouragement during this season. As a community of believers dedicated to the Great Commission, we are praying that we will identify the new opportunities that are opening up, and will be prepared to meet them.

We are humbled by God’s continued favor on Moody for 134 years since D. L. Moody and Emma Dryer laid our foundation.

For King Jesus!