For Such a Time as This

This January marks one year since the Lord called me to Moody as the tenth president. Dee and I are very grateful for this incredible opportunity to serve at a place that deeply shaped me and is making such an impact throughout the world.

The phrase that has been echoing in my mind are the words spoken to Esther: “ . . . for such a time as this” (Esther 4:14). I firmly believe that God has placed us in the right place, at the right time, for His plans and purposes, for such a time as this. It is important that we not miss the moment.

Through Mordecai’s counsel and urging, Esther was able to understand and embrace her God-given opportunity to bring about the salvation of the Jews at that time. My prayer for you this season is that you also embrace where God has you in this moment of time, because it truly is for such a time as this. Wherever you serve or whatever your profession, your main calling is to live on mission with Jesus. You have been called and placed where you are for such a time as this.

For this season and time at Moody, I am thrilled to announce that the Lord has brought Dr. Dwight Perry to serve as our next provost! Dr. Perry is no stranger to Moody, having served as a professor in our Pastoral Studies program and as our midwest regional coordinator for Moody’s evening school. He has the heart of a pastor, the experience of a seasoned leader, and the capability of a skilled educator. I look forward to working with him. Check out our news story, and be on the lookout for a more in-depth profile in the next edition of Moody Alumni & Friends.

As we head into this Christmas season, we need to be reminded that Jesus, too, was born for such a time as this. His birth was missional; He came into our fallen world to break sin’s power over us and demonstrate God’s love through His death on the cross.

This is the life-changing message that we are equipping students at Moody Bible Institute and Moody Theological Seminary to share so that they can be change agents in this world for Jesus Christ.

Many of you have been faithful partners with us in prayer, encouragement and financial support this past year. I want to say thank you for your generous spirit.

As we approach the end of the year I’m grateful in advance for those of you giving gifts to help Moody Bible Institute finish strong.

I hope to see many of you at Founder’s Week, where we will explore the theme “For Such a Time as This.” I’m expecting a powerful week of teaching and worship together.

May you and your family have a meaningful Christmas season, celebrating the birth of King Jesus.