Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Rollercoaster Year

If I could describe this past year of ministry, it would have to be “rollercoaster.” There have been plenty of ups and downs, twists and turns. The down side is that this has been one of the most formidable years of financial challenge that One Man Show has faced. We have done a lot of cutting back as the rough economic times have caused some of our donors to write smaller checks. Love offerings have also been down, undoubtedly a sign of these difficult times.

The upside has been MINISTRY—and lots of it! It’s hard to know where to begin. Early in the year, at a midwinter retreat at Glen Lake United Methodist Camp, I was invited to lead a group of youth who volunteered to be part of a drama team. At the end of the weekend, the teens from the entire camp put on a grand worship service for parents and pastors, which included music, dance, readings, skits and Holy Communion.

One of the highlights in the fall was a children’s revival at First UMC in Jonesboro, AR that was celebrating its sesquicentennial. The kids and I gathered in the chapel while the rest of the church heard “grown-up preaching” in the sanctuary. As the Almost Amazing Marko, I taught Gospel lessons through illusions. Over three nights, attendance increased 57% and several parents told me that their children wanted to skip karate and other secular commitments to come to the show!

I was also able to write a book this year, an Advent devotional entitled Just One Word. With the publication of this book, I have been inspired to write more. Look for a Lenten guide next year.

My travels also took me to various churches to preach seven Jubilee revivals, present living history lessons through my Circuit Rider character and perform magic shows in public schools. This year, over 1400 children delighted to my Right Choice program, which teaches such values as honesty, kindness and citizenship in a fun and positive atmosphere.

Can you help me end this year on an “up” note? A self-addressed envelope has been enclosed for your donation, which is tax-deductible. Remember, One Man Show Ministries is totally dependent on the generosity of people like you, as we receive no funds from the denomination, no guaranteed benefits. And, if you’re not already doing so, I invite you to prayerfully consider supporting this ministry through the year. All donations are gratefully acknowledged with a receipt for your records.

Thank you for your support. Upward to a new year with God!

YOU CAN WRITE CHECKS TO "ONE MAN SHOW" AND MAIL TO

P.O. BOX 822052 FT WORTH TX 76182.

The ministry also accepts PAYPAL donations through the website. Click HERE.

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