LAUGHTER IN DISGUISE

Michael Austin Miller

What if laughter isn’t a distraction from the sacred—but a doorway into it? In this episode, Michael Austin Miller explores the holy ember of humor—how joy sneaks in when belief runs dry, and how even a giggle in grief can be a sign your spirit’s still alive.

From Jesus and the disciples likely laughing their way down dusty roads, to unexpected laughter in the midst of sorrow, a hypnotic sermon gone sideways, and the unexpected grace of Mediwipes—these stories will make you laugh, think, and maybe—just maybe—see grace in a whole new way. Because sometimes, joy is the last ember still glowing when belief feels burned out. And if you’ve ever needed a laugh to remember you’re still alive—this one’s for you.

SPIRITUAL PRACTICE Reflect on a painful moment where laughter surprised you.
 Then, think of a time you made someone laugh during a hard moment. Write it down. Call them and remind them.

PRAYER God of joy and gentle mischief,


thank you for the holy interruption of laughter.


For sneaky giggles, snort-laughs,

and sacred silliness


that remind us we're still alive

—
and still held by grace.


Amen.

MANTRA Laughter is grace

B.O.N.F.I.R.E:

Be Open Now For Inner Renewal Experiences

Be — Be still enough to notice joy sneaking in through the cracks. Laughter often arrives in the pause between what hurts and what heals.

Open — Open your spirit to the unexpected. Sometimes grace wears a punchline, not a halo.

Now — Now is where holy humor lives. Not in what was, not in what might be—but in the moment that makes you laugh before you cry.

For — For every tear you’ve shed, let there be a laugh that reminds you: you’re still here, and grace still has a sense of humor.

Inner — Inner light isn’t always solemn. Sometimes the soul giggles. Sometimes healing sounds like a wheeze-laugh and ends with a snort.

Renewal — Renewal begins when the weight lifts, even for a second. Laughter clears the air and resets the heart.

Experiences — Experiences that made you stumble may one day make you laugh—and that laughter may be the most sacred part of the story.

EMAIL: embersofgracepodcast@gmail.com