A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones. Proverbs 17:22
Laughter can bring joy to our days when we least expect it. We may giggle at a child's innocent comment, chuckle at a friend's quick-witted response, or even belly laugh at ourselves after a silly mistake.
God created us with the capacity to laugh, and in that gift, we find both healing and joy. Laughter, a soothing balm for the soul, reminds us that we don't carry the weight of the world alone. It bonds us together, breaking down walls and softening hard days. It lifts our eyes from the pressures of life and points us toward the goodness of God.
Think about the last time you laughed so hard your sides hurt or happy tears streamed down your face. In that moment, the stress faded, the burdens felt lighter, and joy bubbled up. That is a glimpse of God’s grace at work in our everyday lives.
Jesus knew the power of joy. While Scripture doesn’t record him laughing outright, He was fully human—sharing meals, attending weddings, sitting with friends. Surely, his presence brought laughter, because joy radiated wherever He was. We can find the same joy with Jesus all these years later.
This week, let's look out for the playful ways that God reminds us of his joy. Take notes of those humorous conversations, a child's giggles, or even the lighthearted moments in our own routines. And when laughter comes, receive it as a holy gift, and a loving reminder that God's medicine for weary souls often comes wrapped in joy.
May this simple prayer help you connect joyously with the Lord this week.
Lord of Joy, thank you for the gift of laughter. Let it fill our hearts with gladness. Let it strengthen bonds between friends and family. Let it remind us that you are the source of true joy. Help us not to take ourselves too seriously, but to delight in the moments of laughter you send our way. Amen.
Jesus loves you, Union Family, and I do too!