Lots of Miles, Tons of Smiles

For those who might follow our Facebook Page, @improvmissionaries, you may be aware of the fact that I've been putting in a lot of miles. Starting April 17th, I flew from Chicago to Dallas, driving all over the Metroplex for a week. Left Dallas on April 23rd for Orlando. Spent two days there, arriving back at Midway 11pm on April 24th. Left home at 5am on the 25th for Bethalto in southern Illinois. Spent the night in Granite City and worked my way north for a sectional meeting in Springfield on the 26th. Then, I served as a judge at the Illinois Fine Arts Festival in Decatur the morning of the 27th, heading to Lockport for an RFK Comedy Night that evening on April 27th.

Then, I flew back to Dallas for three more days and came home from May 5th-7th.

Why?

First, I believe in the ministry God has given us. Using comedy to encourage, uplift, and help heal hurting hearts, bringing those hearts closer to the ultimate healing in Christ. We serve survivors by both pouring into them directly, and also by pouring into the staff that serves them everyday.

Second, I know that this ministry is "out of the box," and it is hard to tell potential financial supporters the vision and potential without offering tangible proof. Ideally, I'd never have to PROVE the ministry. The Holy Spirit would communicate and reveal that to the people I speak with, and they'd make the decision based on the Spirit and not my persuasiveness or selling prowess.

This ministry started in 2018 on a part-time basis. Seeing how laughter and creativity can impact lives is so moving and motivating. It can fuel a weary heart that's been through TSA a half-dozen times, sat in the middle seat of a full airplane, had to budget and eat snacks at times, and all the other taxing aspects of travel. But, that moment a face cracks, a body shakes, knees buckle, and deep, child-like laughter bursts forth...that moment makes it all worth it.

There's no greater joy than to see hurting, broken hearts find joy and laugh freely, as if, for that moment, nothing life has thrown at them has hurt them. The sound of laughter is the sound of hope.

All told, in the last month, between flying to Dallas twice, to Orlando, and then driving throughout the state of Illinois, I've logged about 5,000, miles, visited over two dozen cities, and served over 30 people, both survivors and staff, with God's gift of laughter. It's been exhausting, but invigorating. It's been challenging, but a blessing.

I am looking forward to seeing God open more doors for us to serve and to share His love and joy.

You can help make sure we get there! Join Team Yes! And by visiting our Partner tab.