D.L. Moody—A man who grew up without a dad

Throughout the next few weeks, this blog will examine certain “snapshots” of D.L. Moody, which I hope will bring a deeper appreciation for this servant and a greater love for the God whom he gave his life to.

“It was foreign to the disposition of Edwin Moody (D.L. Moody’s father) to give much thought to the future, and so it is not strange that he made little or no provision for the contingency of his sudden death. When, therefore, he was stricken down without a moment’s warning at the early age of forty-one, the widow was left with practically no means of support.”

It is unclear the age of Moody when his father died, but one can assume that it was heartbreaking for the family. Yet death is part of the human existence and the biography that I read (the one written by Moody’s son) focuses more on the burden carried by Moody’s mother, rather than the loss of their beloved husband and father.

The question I have is this: What impact (if any) did Moody’s loss play in his personal development and future ministry?

Yet before I give my answer I want something to be very clear: D.L. Moody was affected by his childhood experiences, not defined by them.

Please notice the distinction between “affected” and “defined”. Are all of us affected by our upbringing? Absolutely. The experiences in life shape us and challenge us, but they don’t have to define us.

First, the death of Moody’s father fueled his care for orphaned or misguided youth (YMCA).

I don’t believe it is coincidence that D.L. Moody had a profound love for orphaned and misguided youth. Though looked after by an uncle and a Unitarian preacher, the young Moody must have seen himself in many of the orphaned children he saw on the streets of Chicago.

Undoubtedly, Moody, early in his childhood, was comforted and challenged by the fact that God is the “Father to the Fatherless” (Psa. 68:5). His mother reminded him of God's goodness and provision, even in the most difficult times. Yet, the more mature Moody, came to believe that he was specifically called (as are ALL Christians) to bring this comfort (both material and spiritual) to these children, through the means of the gospel, which gives sight to the blind, rest to the weary (Matt. 11:28) and nourishment to those who are spiritually hungry and thirsty (John 6:35). 

Yet the zeal of Moody is often balanced by his common sense and playful spirit. Biographers mention often that Moody would be seen walking through the streets of Chicago, inviting children to Sunday School and young men to these “associations” (i.e. the YMCA) and no matter their response, he always had candy in his pocket for them to enjoy. 

Second, the death of Moody’s father likely fostered his spirit of independence and self- sufficiency.

The Moody family made it financially, but not by much. Moody left home as soon as he could to find his own way. After a stop or two, he ended up in Boston, which is where he began working in the shoe business. It became apparent early on that Moody was a good salesman. His magnanimous personality and bold disposition compelled people to buy into what he was selling. Yet as he found more financial independence, he began to feel the weight of God's calling and the undeniable joy of godly dependence. Finally, Moody submitted to the words of Jesus, who made it clear that "you cannot serve both God and money" (Matt. 6:24). Later on, Moody said that the toughest decision he ever made was leaving the business world.

Did Moody lose that magnanimous personality and bold disposition? Never! This is the wonder of the transforming work of God in the hearts of men. Instead, Moody began to use these gifts and talents for God and Him alone. Furthermore, his indomitable spirit would serve him well, since many friends and co-laborers would try to discourage him from "thinking big" or "thinking outside of the box", but always to no avail. 

Third, the death of Moody’s father may have been a constant reminder that life is a “mist”.

Death is unnatural. It often comes without warning. For many, it is a reminder to not waste time. For others, it forces us to prioritize, to put God back where He belongs or at least consider the possibly of a Creator.

I believe for Moody the untimely death of his father compelled him to look at others differently. Any of these young men he saw on the street could die at any moment. Any of these businessmen could be travelling and suddenly fall over dead. Therefore, within Moody there was always an urgency to share the gospel. Time is short and only God knows the number of your days. Boldness must be embraced. The souls of men required immediate attention.

Fourth, the death of Moody’s father was overshadowed by his insatiable love for Jesus Christ.

Moody not only feared God, but he loved Him and followed Him. He viewed it as a supreme privilege to be given a “stewardship” of the gospel. He knew that he was “bought with a price” so he desired to glorify God in every area of his life (1 Cor. 6:20). He never acted like a victim nor used his situation as an "excuse". He never had to "find himself", because he knew who he was.....A sinner saved by grace. Therefore, Moody's hope was fixed on Christ, the author and perfecter of his faith (Heb. 12:1-3). Though I am speculating, I am fairly confident that if asked about he dealt with the loss of his father, Moody would have quoted this verse: 

Job 1:21 And he said, "Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked shall I return. The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD."