A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a downcast spirit dries up the bones. Proverbs 17:22
When was the last time you laughed so hard that you couldn't stop? Maybe someone told a funny story, something caught you off guard, or an old memory tickled your funny bone.
Life can be serious. There are responsibilities to manage and problems to solve. People depend on us each day, and we want to manage all of our responsibilities well. Sometimes life is heavy, filled with hard things like grief, health challenges, financial struggles, and broken relationships. Yet I don't believe God intended for us to live without laughter. I believe he wants us to find moments of levity and joy even when life is full of responsibilities and challenges.
Think about the world God created. Animals do silly things that make us laugh so hard our bellies quiver. Children say unexpected things, and we delight in the laughter they bring us. Everyday life is filled with moments that make us laugh so hard that we may even laugh and cry at the same time. Surely the God who created such a wonderfully surprising world understands the importance of joy and laughter.
Do you remember Sarah's story in Genesis? God told her and Abraham they would have a baby, and Sarah burst out laughing. Can we blame her? They were both well past the age for it, and the idea seemed ridiculous. But God kept his promise. Sarah gave birth to a son, and they named him Isaac, which actually means "laughter." I love this story because it reminds me that God can bring joy into our lives when we least expect it, even when it seems impossible.
Now, laughter doesn't mean we ignore life's difficulties. It simply reminds us that even in difficult seasons, goodness can still be found. This week, let’s look for joy and make room for it each day. Don’t forget to laugh! Call someone who makes you laugh. Notice the funny moments in everyday life and don't be afraid to laugh at yourself! God has given us the joy and freedom of laughter, so let’s not become so busy carrying life's responsibilities that we forget to enjoy the gift of living!
Jesus loves you, Union family, and I do too!