May 2018 Booklet

FINAL ISSUE MAY 9, 2018

THE MOODY MOSAIC NEWS
ISSUE: 6 VOLUME: 6

2 MAY 9, 2018

Photo from Unsplash

Protect a muslim by Autrey Haskell, Staff Writer

Twenty-five points for pulling the headscarf But hate-crimes against Muslims have never “Christians do not hesitate
off of a Muslim woman. Five hundred points for been limited to just one day. to pray for the persecuted
“butchering” a Muslim. A thousand points for church, yet we hardly hear
burning or bombing a mosque. Violent actions Hasan Minhaj of The Daily Show quipped of this grace and compassion
towards Muslims that had been turned into “On April 3 we all stay home. Amazon Prime being extended for the sake
a point-based reward system were detailed everything we need. Catch up on Peaky Blinders
in a letter circulating throughout the United [a Netflix series]. Then walk out April 4th, and of persecuted muslims.”
Kingdom this March. From 10 points to 2,500, boom! Islamophobia is over!” Underlying
the scores were listed under a disturbing title Minhaj’s sarcasm is a bleak reality. Pew Research walking home alone. Reports say this rally
in bright red: “Punish a Muslim Day–3rd April, Center, compiling data from FBI hate crime behind Muslims is unprecedented. While it is
2018.” The letter encouraged people not to be statistics, discovered that anti-Muslim crimes
mindless “sheep” who allow “the white majority had significantly increased between 2015 and
nations of Europe and North America to become 2016, surpassing the numbers recorded in 2001
after 9/11. Muslims experience bigotry every

overrun by those who would like nothing more day in America, and the numbers are increasing. encouraging, the care of our diverse community,

than to do us harm and turn our democracies Issues like these create many questions, and of persecuted people, should always extend

into Sharia led police states.” not just about religious tolerance. One matter beyond a specific date. Whether someone is

The threat of hate crimes against Muslims at the forefront is human dignity. Another, our right or wrong, it is never beyond us to learn
also made its way to the United States. On April Christian response. Christians do not hesitate about, and have compassion for, other world
2nd, New York City political leaders announced to pray for the persecuted Church, yet we perspectives. As J.I. Packer argues, if every

a ramp up in security throughout the city to hardly hear of this grace and compassion being culture is not just a product of sin, but of God’s
prepare for “Punish a Muslim Day.” In the U.K., extended for the sake of persecuted Muslims. common grace, then interaction with them will
Muslim families called police to ask if it would be Unsurprisingly, people here and abroad took be defined by respect and love.

safe for them to go about their normal routines to social media in defense of Muslims. A group As Christians, we should take a cue from our
on Tuesday or even let their children play in the UK created a “#ProtectAMuslismDay” culture; instead of seeing what is wrong, let us
outside. Thankfully, April 3rd came and went, initiative, volunteering themselves as have the humility to see what is right, so as to

with very few crimes against Muslims reported. companions for Muslims who felt unsafe love others like Christ.

friend Request: Trump by Josh Tuckness, Staff Writer

The Trump administration, concerned with national security, has set in officials. The question raised is, “Does the U.S. government really need
motion the appeal to require all immigrants, as well as student and work personal accounts to vet immigrants and those seeking visas?” In a time
visa applicants, to submit social media profiles as part of the rigamarole where the U.S. is experiencing a drop in tourism, down 6.8% in one year,
to enter the United States. The purpose behind this bill is to bolster this will further deter visitors from wanting to come to the United States.
national security and to learn more about people who are entering the During a public comment period, people expressed the discouraging
country. The authorities remarked that occurrences, such as the 2015 effect this bill will have on students and doctors seeking to enroll in U.S.
San Bernardino shooting, in which 14 people died, could have been schools to further their education.
better predicted and prevented if social media correspondence had been
examined. In an investigation after the shooting, officials said that there Faiza Patel, co-director of the Brennan Center’s Liberty and National
were extremist comments between the husband and wife who were Security Program at New York University, remarks that state offices appear
involved in this tragedy. to have already been monitoring people who have come legally into the
states, such as green card holders. The distrust of information used by
The pushback to pass this bill into law surrounds the intrusive nature of government entities causes immediate resistance to the thought of giving
the requirements that would be instituted and will not produce a notable them more. Though the new bill cannot require people seeking U.S.
increase in national security. Applicants will be required to relinquish the visas to supply their passwords, immigrants have showed concern over
past five years of social media history in the application process under this bill. They are worried that people, innocent of violence and crime,
every name and alias he or she has used. Some are concerned about could have a narrative construed by their social media posts that would
the implications that this requirement would raise regarding the lack of disqualify them from the immigrant application process—a process that
transparency pertaining to the use of the information accrued by U.S. is already long and arduous.

“applicants will be required to relinquish Other questions included on the new application ask whether or
the past five years of social media history in not the applicant has been deported from another country and if any
of their relatives have been involved with terrorist activities. Those
the application process . . .” who favor the bill are happy to see a more rigorous vetting process to
ensure U.S. safety, while a large group of people see it as only another
brick in a paperwork wall.

THE MOODY MOSAIC news
ISSUE: 6 VOLUME: 6

3 MAY 9, 2018

Putin: Friend or Foe by Andrew Block, Staff Writer

As eyebrows have been raised at noticeable in his international action, Photo from Pixabay
Vladamir Putin and Donald Trump’s like the invasion of the Crimean
relationship, few Americans were Peninsula in 2014. Through this,
aware of his reelection as President of Americans can see Putin’s willingness
Russia through 2024. The reelection to pursue Russia’s interests at others’
will secure Putin’s position as a expense. On the other hand, Russians
prominent player on the world stage view it as a projection of strength and
for six more years, resulting in a total power, resulting in respect.
of twenty-four years of control over
Russia. Throughout this time, Putin Putin’s restoration of his country
has proven himself an enigmatic combined with his continued
figure with a carefully cultivated nationalist tendencies have contributed
image. As Putin will play a major role to his incredible approval ratings. The
in the world over the next six years, Levada Center indicates that, over the
it seems increasingly important for past eighteen years, Putin’s approval
Americans to recognize Putin as a rating has rarely stooped to 60%
figure to watch with equal parts of while frequently exceeding 80%. This
wariness and respect. contrasts greatly with America’s past
two presidents, who both averaged
Putin began his career as a just under 50% approval. While much
KGB agent in East Germany for a of the support for Putin is genuine, it
number of years. After resigning seems other factors may be at play.
from the KGB in 1991, Putin went
on to climb the political ranks until Putin has gone to considerable
being appointed prime minister trouble to cultivate a certain image.
and, eventually, president as a He has tried to project strength and
result of Boris Yeltsin’s resignation in machismo through his participation in
December, 1999. Putin’s presidency judo and posing shirtless on a horse.
brought about much needed change He has presented himself as a humble
for the Russian people. Since the civil servant despite a potential net
dissolution of the Soviet Union eight worth of over forty billion dollars.
years earlier, the country had been Many believe Putin has availed himself
struggling, even losing its status as a of a number of nefarious methods
world superpower. Putin revitalized for silencing voices detrimental to his
the country’s economy, helping to image. Consequently, it seems difficult
restore Russia’s image. Russians had to determine whether anyone has an
a reason to be proud, once more. accurate understanding of Vladimir
Putin and whether his approval
During his first years in office, Putin rating has been earned through
attempted to reach out to the West respect or fear.
in a seeming attempt to become part
of NATO. A decided shift occurred in Russia is reclaiming her place as
2004, as Putin believed that Western a player on the world stage, with
governments were attempting to Putin at the helm. His government
sew dissent on Russia’s doorstep, has infringed on sovereign soil, has
eastern Europe. Consequently, Putin permitted the action of dictators,
fully embraced a nationalist stance and may have meddled in America’s
with authoritarian tendencies. A presidential election. His government
major component of the nationalist has also restored pride and confidence
stance is a determination to restore to a downtrodden people. Hopefully,
Russia to its status as a world power through a careful eye on international
during the times of the Soviet news, American citizens will be able
Union. This ‘Russia First’ attitude is to discern whether Putin represents a
menace or an ally.

newly discovered human organ by Jessica Brouwer, Lead Writer

Humans may be fragile, but they come with built-in package protection. tissue filled with fluid. Unfamiliar with the fluid-filled cavities, they
The human survival feature was so well hidden that after millennia of sent a sample in for testing, but under a traditional microscope,
medical advancement, exhaustive anatomy, and scientific studies, it the fluid vanished.
remained unknown to the public . . . until a month ago. Discovered in
2015, but published on March 27 of this year, Scientific Reports reported The process of forming a sample caused the fluid to escape through
of a network of fluid-filled tissue throughout the body—the interstitium. the cuts in the tissue, becoming undetectable. By freezing tissue samples
before preparation, the researchers found the cross-section reflecting
The fluid-filled tissue insulates organs throughout the body—below what the specialized camera had indicated during the biopsy; indeed,
the skin, surrounding muscles, lining the lungs, digestive tract, urinary the joint-like collagen was really a network of fluid-filled tissue. Thus, the
system, and even protecting veins and arteries. Think of the white interstitium was discovered.
microfoam sheets used to individually protect several delicate ornaments
packed into the same box at the end of Christmas; the tissue inside the Researchers believe the interstitium holds many answers to the
body functions in the same way. nature of cancer and how it spreads throughout the body, due to the
fluid’s lymphatic source. With so many questions answered, one question
Researchers in the medical field have long recognized the presence remains for the public: Is the interstitium an organ?
of tissue throughout the body, but had concluded the tissue was dense
material—more like a sheet of tissue paper than microfoam—based on The verdict is still out, but whether or not science defines Pluto as a
observations on microscopic imaging of cross-sections. planet, its existence remains a testimony to a Creator, and it continues to
fulfill a purpose. Likewise, the status of “organ” may impact the way the
What changed? As a result of improved technology, two doctors interstitium is introduced in grade school, but it will not determine the
examining a patient’s bile duct for cancer noticed cavities in the lining interstitium’s purpose or involvement in further studies.

THE MOODY MOSAIC features
ISSUE: 6 VOLUME: 6
As spring changes to summer, everyone at Moody—Spokane faces a new season
4 MAY 9, 2018 of life. Throughout our training here, we have had unrivaled access to our
professors in a truly exceptional way. As a parting gift, these mentors and friends
Professors Epilogue
share their gems of wisdom for us to contemplate as we go our varied ways.

Dr. Krell

“Walk so close to God that nothing or no one can come between.
Recognize that fruitfulness for Christ depends on fellowship with Christ.
Live today as you’ll wish you’d lived when you stand before Christ. Finish
well, for we’re judged by how we finish, not by how we start.”

Dr. Malone

“What you think when you think about God is your most important
thought—it will influence every aspect of your life. Contemplate God

through His Word. In it behold the face of Christ. By the Spirit be
conformed to His likeness. Nothing is more relevant for faith and practice.”

mr. Rappazini

“Life is full of transitions. Change is rarely easy. Thankfully, we serve a
God who is constant and unchanging. Next year, like several of you, I
will be relocating to MBI—Chicago. Whether you are migrating to the
Midwest or not, will you join me in clinging tighter to our unchanging
God? Together, with the Lord’s strength, I’m certain we can make a
difference that will have a ripple effect for years.”

Dr. Kibbe

“Find things worth saying and keep saying them; don’t be constantly
looking for new things to say. ‘Work hard, then take a Sabbath. Re-

peat.’’Never ever talk about Greek words in your sermons.’ ‘Read your
Bibles for one reason and one reason only: to know God.’ ‘Your com-
petency for ministry is a function of the Spirit’s work of new creation
happening in the people around you.’ ‘The Transfiguration.’”

Dr. Ferderer

“We all gathered at MBI—Spokane for the same reason—to be the most
useful to Christ and His Kingdom. That common pursuit has made our time
together so very meaningful and treasured. Stay on this course! Keep ask-
ing, ‘Lord, how can I best steward what You’ve entrusted to me?’”

THE MOODY MOSAIC features
ISSUE: 6 VOLUME: 6
As Socrates lay in his bed, he gave one last discourse and, with a cup full of hemlock,
5 MAY 9, 2018 toasted farewell. Like Socrates, the seniors of MBI–Spokane are on their way out, and
every one of them have accrued wisdom during their time as students. The Mosaic has
Senior Advice
sought out some of our seniors to ask them, “What advice would you leave us?”

Nathan Bruner Danielle Depace

“Go to Tibet. Ride a camel. Read the Bible. Dye your “The reason why I came out here was to be a student,
shoes blue. Grow a beard. Chew on the left side of and everything besides that is an addition. You have the
your mouth only. Shave with a straight razor. Sleep all rest of your life to go on adventures, but right now is
day and climb trees at night. Hold your head under wa- the only time you have to do well in school. Trust me, at
ter and play the violin. Run for mayor. Live in a barrel. the end of your college career, you will be wishing you

Plant tulips in the rain. . . don’t write poetry.”* spent more of your time studying.”

turner Perkins Luke Risser

“God is at the end of everything in our lives. He gives “Here’s a simple and profound lesson I’ve started to
us all things—friends, food, romance, disappointment, learn while at Moody: private and corporate prayer
heartbreak, and pain—all to give us Himself. When you are literally the most important things you could spend
encounter either great happiness or great suffering, dig your time doing. What could be more important than
deep into it, and discover that God is standing there, communing with God in prayer? As Spurgeon once said,
‘Prayer is doubt’s destroyer, ruin’s remedies, and the
waiting to show you more of Himself.”
antidote to all anxieties.’”

Jessica Schroeder Jake Grubb

“Be content in the season God has given you. It’s “My advice for underclassmen at Bible college would be
common to just wish you were in another season of life, to make sure they prioritize investing time into the local
whether it be marriage, financial stability, or graduation. church—not just doing PCM there, but making friends
Each semester has fixed my focus on God. I have learned and being a significant member of the community. It’s so
continually from Him to be faithful with today and easy to just hang out with people at school and not make

trust Him for tomorrow.” a difference in the local church.”

*Adapted from Charles Bukowski’s “Friendly Advice to a Lot of Young Men.”

THE MOODY MOSAIC Features
ISSUE: 6 VOLUME: 6

6 MAY 9, 2018

For the Lord of hosts has Planned by Autrey Haskell, Staff Writer

It is a well-known story: gracious cooperation from the IRS and a whether they are of excitement for a new journey in Chicago, or of the
beneficent Catholic priest propelled Spokane Bible College into the
world of Moody Bible Institute. It was a slow transition, however. The pain and struggles that come with this unexpected change.
school we know today barely existed when, in 2006, Spokane officially
became a branch campus. But what of the positive? A diaspora of our Moody community will take

Twelve years later, and Moody Bible Institute—Spokane has grown place after graduation this May. Faculty and staff will begin new jobs across
exponentially, educated hundreds of students, attracted world-class
faculty and staff, sent graduates into ministries all over the world, and the country. Hundreds of students will continue their education at colleges
created an impactful and unique community. Looking back on the
development of Moody—Spokane, Campus Dean Dr. Lewis says the like Moody—Chicago, Multnomah University, or Corban University. Plenty
credibility and success of our campus thus far is due to Moody—Chicago,
but also to getting the right team together. of people will also stay: students continuing in the aviation program or

“twelve years later, and Moody Bible online, and those leading a new university.
Institute–Spokane has grown exponentially,
educated hundreds of students, attracted Ironically, it is the kind of growth no one expected. Rather than the

world-class faculty and staff. . .” prosperity of our school, each of us has had to undergo the growth of our

“When you have the right people on the bus,” he says, quoting faith in one way or another. With that in mind, we can say with humbleness
Good to Great, “you can do incredible things.” According to Dr.
Lewis, entrepreneurial endeavors, new marketing strategies, and that this transition
faculty and staff who were passionate about advancing Moody—
Spokane, most likely would have created the synergy needed for the is something God “Rather than the prosperity of
continuation of our campus. will use to further

Nevertheless, Moody administration will be closing our doors in less His Kingdom. Even our school, each of us has had
than three months. the history of our to undergo the growth of our
campus attests to His
Much can be said about the negative consequences of our campus
closing. Debates have swirled over our the closure, Chicago, motivations, plans. Tina Armagost, faith in one way or another.”
poor communication, and what seems to be a lack of empathy or (Student Services
compassion. Whatever the issue, feelings should never be dismissed,
Office Administrator),

who has worked twenty-five years for Moody says, “I feel blessed to have

been here from the beginning to the end, because I have seen God’s

movement along the way.”

For reasons known only to Him, God has decided that Moody—

Spokane has accomplished its purpose. If we truly believe in a God of

peace, who formed plans long ago with perfect faithfulness, it is easier

to see this change as the beginning of new ways to serve Him. Ms.

Tina, an unattested example of service and hospitality, advised: “You

will be served well if you’re always thinking of serving others first.”

This service includes us, but most notably Christ, who is not done

working with and for us, yet.

“In ministry, whether academic
or pastoral, we need to dig
the well deep to serve the
people of God over the long
haul. Our MDiv is designed to
help our students not only
dig deeply into the Bible,
theology, and practice, but
also to leave with a deeply
dug well from which they can
draw water for a lifetime
of ministry.”

Graham A. Cole, Dean of TEDS

We are looking for students who are willing to embrace
the challenge of going to a greater depth in their
understanding of Scripture and ministry preparation,
all within a community that will require their best.
Our gospel calling shapes our identity as an institution,
and it will shape your experience as a student at TEDS.
From our earliest days, we have embraced the responsibility
and privilege of being...

ENTRUSTED WITH THE GOSPEL

to serve the global church

Full-tuition scholarships available
Learn more at teds.edu/mdiv

Online options at tiu.edu/online

THE MOODY MOSAIC EDitorials
ISSUE: 6 VOLUME: 6

7 MAY 9, 2018

Authentic Manhood by Andy Yount, Media Specialist

Every man asks himself one question: “Do I have what it takes?” Do I “An authentic man rejects passivity,
have what it takes to be good at my job? Do I have what it takes to be a accepts responsibility, leads courageously,
good friend, husband, or neighbor? If we are being honest, we probably
ask these questions multiple times a day without even being conscious and lives expectantly.”
of it. I would wager that the majority of men desire adequacy, but how
many of us, as men, know what pursuing that looks like? What does it and, instead, chose to follow his own desire. He ate the fruit willingly
mean to live a life of authentic manhood and what source do we look to instead of leading in his marriage and rejecting sin. Lastly, he failed to live
for an example? expectantly. Adam’s actions demonstrated that he did not believe God
would fulfill all that He had promised. His lack of trust led him to seek a
While considering how to write this article, I asked a trusted friend for solution outside of God’s will.
his thoughts on biblical manhood. To my delight, he was very familiar with
the topic. He had even led sessions about it at men’s conferences. He used Indeed, Adam was the first to fail at authentic manhood, but surely
a curriculum called Authentic Manhood developed by Dr. Robert Lewis. each of us, in a thousand different ways, have joined his failure. My goal
As he continued explaining, he said, “An authentic man rejects passivity, is not to malign Adam but to show that all it takes for us to fail as men is
accepts responsibility, leads courageously, and lives expectantly.” It was to sit back and be taken by the tide.
as if he had rehearsed it a thousand times. His response caused me to
realize something. Being a godly and authentic man is not an accident; it I think of the marble statue of David by Michelangelo; even such a
is a discipline. In fact, living out those four attributes as man goes against masterpiece began as a shapeless block. It is safe to say that we all start
our natural tendencies. off rough around the edges, but just because we start out blocky does
not mean we have to stay that way. Authentic manhood is not something
In his curriculum Authentic Manhood, Lewis explains how our natural stumbled upon. It is not like a fungus which thrives in the shady quiet of
tendency can be seen in the example set by the first man. Adam was a decaying log. Rather, it is something skillfully shaped and honed, with
called to reject passivity, but while Eve was being tempted, he stood attention to detail, much like a marble sculpture.
silent. Adam was called to accept responsibility. Writer Roy Smith says,
“The ability to accept responsibility is always the measure of a man.” In
one breath, Adam managed to blame both God and Eve for his actions
while taking no responsibility himself. Adam failed to lead courageously

A Community of God-seekers by Katy White, Advertisting Manager Photos by Andy Yount

I remember the first time I walked these This community never fails to astound me. humbled by these men and women who have
halls. I remember the feeling of excitement that Yes, it is far from perfect, but it is special. When washed our figurative feet as they led through
comes on the first day of freshman classes. I I think of the Moody community, I think of their service. Professors and faculty alike have
remember moving through the cacophony of the way I’ve seen people pray for each other. taught us through their example how to be
new faces as I attempted to navigate my way Whether in the halls, at a Tuesday prayer night, disciples who make disciples.
to class. What made it all the more exciting, or in a Zips booth at midnight, these students
though, was getting to know the story behind are bold in their prayers. I think of the way I’ve “But what did not change
each face. When asked what brought them to seen students give their food away when they was the love and service of
Spokane, most students would laugh as they realize someone else couldn’t afford groceries
responded with one word: God. Every student that week. Even the way students are willing this community. . .”
that has found their way to MBI—Spokane has to hold each other accountable and have hard
a unique, and sometimes strange, story of how conversations with each other demonstrates One morning in November, our lives suddenly
they got here. But they all have in common their the uniqueness of this community. All these are changed. But what did not change was the love
desire to follow God wherever He leads. little ways in which this community strives to and service of this community, because the
embody Christ’s love. body of Christ is not limited to an institution or
“Every student that has a campus; it is defined by its members. God has
found their way to MBi– As a freshman, I remember hearing used MBI—Spokane to equip and train people
SPokane has a unique, and upperclassmen talk about how you really get who were here for no reason other than His
sometimes strange, story of to know your professors over your time here. leading. Many of us are leaving now, spreading
Three years later, I can now tell you about the across the States in a miniature diaspora. As
how they got here.” times I have laughed with my professors, eaten time moves on and we change, grow, and move
dinner at their homes, and traveled across the with it, let us take this time in Spokane with us.
world with them. I have seen them counsel, May we build communities, make disciples, and
pray, and cry with their students. Some of these may we never stop praying with boldness.
professors I have come to call my friends. I am

THE MOODY MOSAIC EDitorials
ISSUE: 6 VOLUME: 6

8 MAY 9, 2018

Why bother asking? I hope you fail

by Jessica Brouwer, Lead Writer by Zak Sommers, Editor-in-chief

What is the purpose of a question? To assume that the purpose of a When I was sixteen, I got fired for stealing from my first job. I was a

question is obtaining a solution would be a grave mistake. Isn’t an answer grocery store bagger at Buehler’s, a mid-western grocery chain. I was

the end of a question, though? Yes, an answer is the antithesis of the claiming to be a Christian, but here I was, sitting in the back office

question—the end—and either brings closure to uncertainty or the end of a grocery store, watching a small screen that showed my deeply

to potential. But the purpose of the question is the expanse between regrettable actions. I can’t tell you why I did it; I didn’t really have a

question and answer, beginning and end, unknown and known. That reason. But I do know that I failed, big time. I was the only Christian

space is where wondering resides. The answer provides closure and in my family, and I had to admit to them my failure. And even worse,

satisfaction, much like a second bookend, but the books between ends I had to tell my youth pastor, who thought I was just the coolest kid.

are what really matters. Any question asked, should ultimately be asked I let everyone down. I was a failure . . . or so I thought.

with the intention to wonder—and, at best, to learn. I’ve always struggled with

Do all questions have answers? No, some questions simply will not “I’ve always struggled the tension of failing and
with the tension of making mistakes in the midst
result in an answer. Unanswered questions fulfill a unique role in life. We
of living a Christian life. Can
are driven to desire certainty and answers, yet not all answers are for us to

obtain. Think of books leaning up against only one book end. The security failing and making REAL Christians fail? Can REAL
Christians make mistakes?
of closure is removed, and what remains is an uncomfortable, sometimes

messy, balance. A classic example in theology may be posed, “Does God mistakes in the midst of The failure I speak of is not
living a Christian Life.” always sin, but all sin is failure
save through sovereignty or free will?” Such questions identify mysteries and worthy of processing. It

yet to be unraveled, or complexities too elaborate for articulation.

Questions make a home for tension. Often viewed with contempt for has taken me a long time to

lack of satisfaction, unanswered questions have fallen into a tragic state. learn some valuable nuggets about dealing with this kind of failure.

But, again, what is the purpose of a question? Questions without answers Even though I have much more to learn, I would like to impart my

provide a unique opportunity for those who are willing to listen. Questions revelations to anyone that might relate with the struggles of failure

provide a safe place to wrestle; as the expanse draws out, thinking deepens within the Christian life.

and learning becomes a companion to the uncomfortable lack of resolve. 1. Failure must be confessed.

These are the very questions that play a tremendous role in relational This is the most humbling, and, dare I say, the most important

and personal reflection. In the process of considering questions, a friend part of the process of dealing with failure. We must accept and

asked me, “Why are questions important in the process of reflection? acknowledge our failure if we ever want to overcome. Admitting

Why do we avoid asking hard questions?” Both were excellent questions . failure is like using an alcohol pad to clean a wound. It is the best

. . until I came face-to-face with empty space, and felt the friction of “too- way to get that boo-boo clean, but you better stand clear of my fists

close-for-comfort.” as they writhe from the pain. We try to avoid this confession like the

Fighting to formulate some plague, but John tells us healing can only come from confession to

“these questions can answer, I turned to my past self. our brothers and sisters (1 John 1:9). Yeah, you failed. Sin or not sin,
Flipping through journal pages, I
be terrifying to ask, found questions in the form of a it is going to be okay. Let’s talk about it.
raw collision between emotions
2. Failure is the greatest catalyst to growth.
but offer liberty as and rationality. Here, tension—
they create a space and often fears—echoed in thick The great thing about failure is that you often learn the most

chords as I asked, uncensored, significant life lessons from the fallout. Think back upon some of the

greatest struggles, failures, and difficult times in your life, and you

to acknowledge fears “Why do I feel frustration? What will undoubtedly be able to articulate some sort of lesson that was
do I know of rest? Do my words
have weight or do they blow learned in the aftermath. Ever touch the stove as a kid? Yeah, bet you

or uncertainty. they away in the wind? Where is my didn’t do that again. Failure is a strict reminder of how our decisions
allow for a lack love for Jesus Christ?” These
impact not only our lives, but those around us. It is a scar that can

be healed, but not forgotten, a broken bone that when rightly dealt

of resolve . . .” questions can be terrifying to with becomes stronger than before.
ask, but offer liberty as they
“Think back upon some of the greatest
create a space to acknowledge struggles, falures, and difficult times in
your life, and you will undoubtedly be able
fears or uncertainties. They allow for a lack of resolve, at least for a time. to articulate some sort of lesson that

Questions held the place of conclusions I yearned for in their absence. was learned in the aftermath.”

In wretched irony, where certainty ends, the difficult honesty begins.

Questions line the brink of the cliff that drops off into unknown expanse.

Honesty does not always come fully formed, but only when you reach the

end of what you know do you reach the end of yourself. It is messy, but

questions provide space to see the mess for what it is: the space for trust,

to seek God, regardless of an answer.

THANK YOU 3. Failure does not define you.
You failed, but you are not a failure. If we let our failures define
us, we will be prone to repeat those mistakes. If you submit to the
definition of a failure, you will never be able to overcome. Failure gives
you permission to try again, but with more wisdom and experience
to succeed the next time. When we bring our failure to Jesus, pray
for forgiveness, and seek repentance, we are empowered to become
greater. After three denials, Jesus didn’t call Peter a failure, He called
him a shepherd. You might not have any sheep, but I’m pretty sure
Jesus doesn’t call you a failure either.
So, get out there; yeah, you might fail! But don’t let failure be the
end of your journey.

@radicalspokane

THE MOODY MOSAIC Art & Culture
ISSUE: 6 VOLUME: 6

9 MAY 9, 2018

Geek to chic by Andrew Block, Staff Writer

The ten highest-grossing movies of all time While these interests are not fully mainstream, advantageous strategy in both the business
include Avatar, two Star Wars movies, three they are no longer viewed as anomalous. and academic realms.
Marvel movies, and an entry from the Harry
Potter films. TV series like The Big Bang Theory This shift seems to have begun in the noughties, While this adoption of culture seems largely
and Silicon Valley depict the daily life of nerds. when technology became universal and browsing positive, it would seem that some nerds feel
Other series like The Walking Dead and Game of the internet became the primary pastime of slighted. Some, accustomed to being shunned,
Thrones dominate people’s conversation. Nerd many. The digital revolution made figures like have been frustrated by mainstream culture
culture has now become mainstream culture. Steve Jobs and Bill Gates household names and taking their title and interests. Nerd and geek,
standards for success. When combined with the titles used to deride this group, have become a
While franchises like Star Wars and Star Trek widespread promotion of intellectual properties title held with pride by many. However, these
have been widely consumed for decades, both like Star Wars and Lord of the Rings, nerds and words have been emblazoned on shirts worn
series have had a particularly intense following their interests were no longer niche. Many icons by party-goers and their ilk. This has become
within nerd culture. These nerds and geeks of the nerd community, like Dan Harmon and a source of frustration for many nerds, as they
have been known for their attention to detail Wil Wheaton, have embraced and capitalized perceive their identity being stripped or co-
and encyclopedic knowledge of these series, on this newfound widespread appeal, resulting opted. In some cases, it seem that mainstream
alongside a variety of other science-fiction and in series like Tabletop and Rick and Morty. It may have adopted geek culture, but left the
fantasy universes. As a result of this involvement seems that geeks’ drive towards knowledge geeks behind. While some nerds have been
in the otherworldly and dedication to varied and mastery has even invaded the current elevated, others remain ostracized despite their
hobbies, nerds and geeks have traditionally generation’s sense of entrepreneurship. The interests and identity being adopted into the
been ostracized. Despite this history, it seems adoption of the culture is typically paired with a culture around them. This should not detract
that mainstream culture has begun to adopt strong pursuit of education and independence, from one’s enjoyment of wonderful content.
and adapt the series and hobbies that nerds resulting in an apparent membership within Instead, it should serve as a reminder of the
once held so dear, such as role-playing games, an elite or distinct group. Consequently, necessity to be vigilant for the underrepresented
anime, hobby board games, and comic books. appearing nerdy has become a particularly and ostracized around us.

Photo from Unsplash

Must-see Summer movies Ocean’s 8 – June 8

by Autrey Haskell, Staff Writer Eight female masterminds try to steal a priceless necklace from New
York’s Met Galla. Sandra Bullock plays Debbie Ocean who leads the heist
DISCLAIMER: Some of these films contain adult content. of all heists with Cate Blanchett, Rihanna, Anne Hathaway, Mindy Kalin,
Sarah Paulson, Awkwafina, and Helena Bonham Carter. Might as well
Solo: a Star Wars story – May 25 add to this franchise too – can’t wait for Ocean’s 9 a Ocean’s 10.

What’s better than Frodo and Sam’s friendship? Han Solo’s and Jurassic world: Fallen kingdom – June 22
Chewbacca’s. Watch one of the best friendships of all time begin when
the roguish Solo meets his co-pilot and BFF. Epic adventures and a No one really knows why people would go out of their way to save
nefarious gambler of the criminal underworld included. dinosaurs, but that’s exactly what Bryce Dallas Howard and Chris Pratt
try to do in this sequel. While the theme park may be closed, there’s
an active volcano threatening to destroy all of the dinosaurs . . . again.
Dangerous new species inhabit the island, but $10 says Pratt’s motorcycle
is still there for an epic getaway.

the incredibles 2 – June 15 ant man & the wasp – July 6

No one really cares what the synopsis of this sequel is, because we’ve Ant-Man tries to figure out how to balance life as a superhero and a
been waiting fourteen years for it. Still, the world needs saving, but dad. Now he’s faced with a new mission and, in order to discover secrets
this time Mr. Incredible stays home. While Elastigirl campaigns for the from his past, he has to learn to work and fight alongside our newest
return of superheroes and continues to fight crime, Mr. Incredible tries female superhero, the Wasp. Heroes may not be true to size.
to take care of Violet, Dash, and Jack-Jack while holding down the fort.
It’s going to be fabulous, darling.

alita: Battle Angel – December 21 Mission-impossible: Fallout – July 27

James Cameron’s go at adapting a 90’s manga series into a movie. Alita We all know Tom Cruise is the man (mostly because he performs his
is a rebuilt cyborg with no memory of who she is or her past life. It may own stunts), and this movie is no different. Watch as Cruise attempts to
be a great self-discovery story, especially with that $200 million price prevent another global catastrophe after another failed IMF mission . . .
tag. Twitter has exploded debating over Alita’s anime-inspired eyes, so The plot may never change, but if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
you might as well add your two cents.

THE MOODY MOSAIC
ISSUE: 6 VOLUME: 6

10 MAY 9, 2018

Dear Dwight,

I will be parting ways with a lot of my friends this month. Some of them I probably won’t see for a long time or ever again. As one who is not

typically sentimental, how do I go about saying goodbye to so many people in a time-sensitive manner? SINCERELY,

HELLO SENTIMENTAL, SENTIMENTAL

The sentiment of goodbye ought to be a simple as mortified when I hugged distant relatives as persons who have contributed little etches on
prerogative. Such an exploit does not need to they walked out the door. Did I care that I had not your heart of marble. Reserve for yourself those
be a mawkish display or over affectionate. If, by seen them for eleven months? Not necessarily. who, as Michelangelo treated David, chiseled
the power of social pressures, you feel coerced Was my mind driven to concern due to the fact and cut into your soul and shaped you into the
to create artificial sap, deny such bullying of that it could be well over a year until we meet person you are today. You will know the absence
society. What is the perfect goodbye? It is a silly again? No. The sentiment I showed was only of your friend’s iron when it has vanished.
question in which the answer is only confused by due to my mother’s prod. The Thinker thinks of his maker’s leaving, The
social bullying. The need to create a meaningful Scream screams at the horror of his painter’s
farewell is only a pain that is caused by dumb If maternal forces are no longer primers for passing, and The Great Wave waves “fare-thee-
expectations we falsely believe others to have. hearty farewells, then, as theatrics famously well” to his long lost patron. Let us lend an ear
If humanity was free to take their departures query, what’s our motivation? It is intuition, to the writer of proverbs, Roxette, when she
as they felt necessary, there would be and let intuition be governed by discernment. says, “Listen to your heart before you tell him
significantly less crying. Who is it that deserves your special farewell? goodbye.” It has been a joy to write for you, and
No person can know and only your soul can say. now I, too, must learn to extend a warm farewell.
As a child, I was disciplined to portray myself Restrict yourself from extended goodbyes with

UNTIL GLORY OVER YONDER,
DWIGHT LYMAN MOODY

Training with an aim to serve others

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Contact CanIL today.

THE MOODY MOSAIC
ISSUE: 6 VOLUME: 6

11 MAY 9, 2018

Remembering the moments by Dr. Kay Tronsen, Faculty Advisor

Our brains contain billions of neurons capable system to let God rewire us and reconnect us to do you want me to do?” His gentle answer
of thousands of trillion synaptic connections. Himself. We can’t change the events of the past, was, “Walk ahead.” It is a memory of intense
Fueling that neuron/synaptic activity, our but as Thompson argues, we can change our joy, a desire-of-my-heart answer that brought
brains contain other types of brain cells and experience of the past in the present. Doesn’t me to Moody five years ago, and sustained me
special chemical and electrical processes that this shed light on the power of forgiveness and in times of doubt and trial (because no answer
enable us to do something we take for granted: having a renewed mind in Christ? to prayer comes without those adornments,
remembering. We tend to think of memory as I’ve discovered). I look back and wonder, now,
distinct collections stored away in a bank vault, “We can’t change the events my five-year employee appreciation gift from
handy for us to slide off the shelf, ready for our of the past, but as Thompson Moody sitting on my desk, what upcoming
use. But brain research has revealed this may argues, we can change our good-byes and last hugs will do to my memories.
not be the case. Our memories are created when experience of the past in But—I have to be honest—that Palouse memory
a particular string of neurons fire during our is now joy, backlit by sadness and regret. Yet, I
experiences. When we remember, we activate the present.” know that God is doing something new, so I can
that particular string of neurons again, but our live with that joy-tinged memory and wait for
current state influences that remembering so What this shows me is that our present what’s next.
that our history becomes overlaid with present sadness, our sense of loss at Moody’s closing,
feelings, changing our memories in subtle (and, could already begin to color the memories As our days as a Moody campus come to a
sometimes, major) ways. of our time at Moody. I think back five years, close, let’s remember that He is our rock and
to that long-ago time when I was considering our redeemer, able to reform and rewire us
Combining insights from neuroscience taking the job at Moody. Picture this, if you to reflect His glory. God calls us to remember.
and psychiatry with the Christian faith, Curt will. In rural Palouse, my house on a hillside A simple biblical search reveals over 200
Thompson, in Anatomy of the Soul, reveals with wheat fields and tall pine trees in view, the references containing the word “remember.”
hidden depths to any discussion of memory. small Palouse River out of sight down the hill, I For example, Psalm 78:35 says, “They
He shows how we are wired to know God. He was standing outside, praying, the evening sky remembered that God was their rock, the Most
writes, “Humans’ ability to tell stories which stretched above, the crystal air joining with a High God their redeemer.” So, dear community,
distinguishes us from all other living creatures, sense of His presence, as I asked, “Lord, what honor your memories of your time here at
is a crucial part of how our minds connect us to Moody, and let Him cause you to remember in
God and others. Memory is the cornerstone of ways that honor Him.
this undertaking.” Telling our story becomes the
key to opening up our neuron-based memory

Remembering your moment

The Moody Mosaic served several purposes for MBI–Spokane, but above all, our mission was to build community through stories and conversation.
The staff of the Mosaic want to encourage you to reflect upon your life at MBI–Spokane. Take a moment to write out your own memory, your own
moment, where you saw God move in our community and in your life. Let us honor our school by remembering the significance of our time here.

THE MOODY MOSAIC honoring the Staff
ISSUE 6: VOLUME 6

12 MAY 9, 2018

Kelsey Weller cierra klatt zak sommers
Editor-in-Chief Editor-in-Chief Editor-in-Chief

Dr. Kay Tronsen clare fragomeni Cliff Conrad Jenny Albritain Jessica Brouwer
Faculty Advisor Lead Writer Lead Writer Lead Writer Lead Writer

ERic Suminski Esther Ahn kari Morse kayla Smokovitz kinsey rayburn victoria szontagh
Managing Editor Managing Editor Managing Editor Managing Editor Managing Editor Managing Editor

andy yount christopher laird claire luger clare cosper courteney himsel phoebe hamel
Photographer/Writer Photographer Photographer Photographer Photographer/Writer Photographer

kaitlin holloway katy white adam palm amelia hepner Andrew Block anna blake
Advertising Manager Advertising/Writer Staff Writer Staff Writer Staff Writer Staff Writer

ashley rocha Autrey haskell Isabel heisler josh tuckness kara johnson kevin barkman
Staff Writer Staff Writer Staff Writer Staff Writer Staff Writer Staff Writer

the

Moody Mosaic

matthew vanderlip rachel nagle raessa winkles tyler nelson zaCk lacy student newspaper
Staff Writer Staff Writer Staff Writer Staff Writer Staff Writer Spring '13 - Spring '18

Not pictured: Jodie Bell (Photographer) and Tim Wellings (Writer).

The Moody Mosaic is a publication of MBI—Spokane at 611 E. Indiana Ave. Spokane, WA 99207. All views expressed within are that of the listed writers or staff and do not specifically represent that of any persons at MBI—Spokane.