Standing with People in the Mess
Standing with people in the mess. That’s what God calls us to do (Galatians 6:2), and that’s what JOY FM desires to do—stand with people in their mess, being a source of hope and support when it’s needed most.
Lonnie’s story began in a place of hurt. Lost in drunkenness and grief, he was living recklessly and without direction. But God has radically restored Lonnie’s life in such a short time. And he’ll tell you himself that JOY FM was right there with him, helping to change his hurt into hope.
A New Beginning
After his tragic car crash and subsequent 5-day coma, he woke to find his life unrecognizable.
No home to return to and struggling to find a reason to sober up, he began to spiral.
That’s when the Salvation Army stepped in, offering Lonnie a lifeline at their Adult Rehabilitation Center. Lonnie was desperate for a change but didn’t know where to start. It was there, in his lowest moments, that he took a step towards a relationship with Jesus.
“Because when you have nothing else to go, it’s either go back to a life of crime, drinking, drugs, and promiscuity, or you try something you’ve never tried before.”
-Lonnie
JOY FM became a surprising companion during his rehab journey. Each morning, as early as 3 AM, he would start his day by tuning into JOY FM (he called it letting “Joy into the room”), letting the music fill his mind and “set the tone” for his day.
Moments That Turn Hurt Into Hope
Lonnie said to him JOY FM is more than a radio station; it’s a community that shows up, sharing hope and encouragement.
“Anybody that’s going to be with me during the mess part 100% is going to be with me when I stand on success.”
– Lonnie
During his journey of sobriety, JOY FM was there.
Not just on the radio, but face-to-face. Heart-to-heart.
In December, there was a surprise visit to the Salvation Army from the JOY FM Morning Show along with some warm food. The visit ended with a sweet time of praise and worship!
In February, JOY FM artist Ben Fuller shared his recovery journey at the center, reinforcing how transformative and healing Jesus is.
Today, Lonnie is not only sober; he’s ready to give back and help others find their way out of the mess as a new employee of the Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Center.
God uses these moments to turn hurt into hope.
And that’s powered by you.
Your gift now, during Listener Support Month, will ensure that the encouragement, music and hope continues through JOY FM this coming year.
And for every gift of $250, you can choose your thank you gift(s)!
Wear your t-shirt. Share your prayer bear with someone you know who is hurting. Or tell us that you want your shirt or bear donated to the men at the Salvation Army Rehab Center.
Thank you for being on mission with JOY FM and standing in the gap between HURT and HOPE!
