An annual tradition since 1988, the radio stations that comprise the Moody Broadcasting Network (MBN) will soon suspend regular programming for a few days for a different kind of communication with their listeners from across the world. As a commercial-free endeavor, MBN relies on the prayer and financial support of its audience to produce and distribute quality Christian programming. During SHARE, listeners are reminded of their importance and are asked to call in a faith commitment of their support. Hundreds of volunteers receive these calls at temporary call centers set up at stations across the nation, often with the live broadcast taking place just feet away. SHARE is a team effort in the truest sense of the word.
“SHARE is one of the most exhausting, and at the same time exhilarating, seasons of our year,” says Robert Neff, MBI’s vice president of Broadcasting. “It’s exhausting because of all the advance preparation and long, intense days during the event. But the exhilaration far exceeds any exhaustion because of the opportunity to relate with our listening friends in this special way. It is so wonderful to open the communication lines and hear the testimonies of how God has used our efforts to reach and minister to people in so many different ways.”
And indeed, stories pour in, testifying to the profound role MBN programs play in the daily lives of so many people. Listeners tell us how valuable it is to have Moody Radio always available during morning commutes, afternoon coffee breaks, and sleepless nights. They appreciate that it’s there during uncertain times of national tragedy and for those who are far from home. MBN is also there for people whose homes are far away. Among others, messages of encouragement from Iran, Pakistan, Germany, and Brazil reveal MBN’s worldwide reach.
“My family and I just arrived in the Philippines a few weeks ago as new missionaries. I wanted to send you an encouraging note to let you know that your program is ministering to us all the way over here via the Internet. Your work for our Lord is a blessing to people not only in Chicagoland, but to people around the world. Thanks so much.” Philippines
“It is a great honour for me to write a few lines for you. I found this Web site on the Internet and became very glad after knowing about your free services for the people of God. . . . Thank you very much!!” Pakistan
During SHARE, Moody’s broadcasting stations across the country depend on their supporters to raise about half of their annual operating budget. It’s a big task that requires everyone’s help with any amount they are able to give. But many listeners fear that what they can afford to give is too small–that a gift of $5 or $10 can’t possibly help. But it does help. “If any of us ran out of gas in our car on a cold blustery night just a short distance from home and someone came along with a tablespoon of fuel, just enough to get us safely home, would we think that their small contribution didn’t matter? Not at all; we would be thrilled! In itself, a tablespoon of fuel isn’t much, but when you put thousands of tablespoons together Moody Broadcasting’s tank gets filled up for another year of ministry,” explains Neff. “It’s not about the size of the gift. SHARE is about each person caring enough to be a part of what the Lord is doing through the station that is feeding and blessing their life.”
Reprinted from the January 2003 issue of TODAY IN THE WORD
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