29 Sep Laughter

I have been in a number of serious conversations over the past months. But last week I was told a joke that struck me at the right time in the right way and I had to laugh. And I laughed, and laughed and laughed. It felt so good. It was one of those deep belly laughs. You know the kind. You shake, get control, then think about it again and start the process all over. Other people nearby wondered what in the world had taken hold of me. It felt like the sun shining on a cloudy day, bringing light and warmth.

Scripture speaks about laughter. Sometimes it is associated with the drunken laughter of fools. But more importantly laughter is portrayed as the natural result of the joy of seeing the Lord work in powerful ways. He brought the captives back to Israel, and they were filled with laughter. He brought Job out of his troubles and he laughed. He made outlandish promises to Abraham and Sarah laughed thinking about it. God is not puritanical. He is the God who created and celebrates laughter.

Be clear: There is a time to laugh and a time to mourn. (Ecc. 3) So laughter must be appropriate. But we are made to laugh. When was the last time you laughed? Did you know that we who are a part of a congregation are to so obey and follow our church leaders that their work is a joy, bringing laughter? (Hebrews 13:17)

If you’ve been too serious lately, find something to laugh about. Something simple, pure and joyful. You will be amazed the effect it will have on you. It will make those around you wonder what got ahold of you.