"Laughter is the best medecine." This is an old adage and the title of an Erma Bombeck book (my mother would be happy that I know that). I thought a bit about laughter in the last day or so. The students at UMS (Union Middle School where I work for all of you like Kimber Lane) believe that I am the emotionless man. I am always calm, never yell, and never laugh or smile. Now, I don't know if that is the case or not, but I like the reputation, so I try to keep it going. I find it humorous to be, well, un-humorous, if you catch what I'm trying to say.
There is a lot to be said for laughter. I know that some medical research has shown that laughter can help the healing process. Laughter is good for the mind and the soul according to many "experts" in the field. I was wondering as I was walking the streets of Washington tonight, did Jesus ever laugh? I tried to think of some scripture reference that would show that. There are a few OT references to God "laughing" but most of them are at his enemies. I didn't find a reference in which Jesus laughed. I don't think, though, that means he didn't. I think his exchange with the woman of Canaan whose daughter was demon-possessed might have brought a chuckle or two. He talks of being sent to the "lost sheep of Israel," but she worshipped and kept pleading. He talked of taking "children's bread and tossing it to the dogs" and she retorted that even the dogs get crumbs. I think this had to bring a smile to his face. There is another incident that I think has a humorous moment that is often overlooked. John 11 records the raising of Lazarus. His death is not really funny. In fact, Jesus wept. There is a moment, though, at which I think Jesus had to laugh. Jesus said, "Take away the stone." Martha said (as found in the KJV), "Lord, by this time he stinketh." Did you catch that? Stinketh! That's a funny word. I don't know how it sounds in Hebrew. I am sure Mark Hahlen does and can attest to whether or not it as funny in the original. Jesus had to laugh at this. I mean, he knows that and he knows what's coming next. "Thanks Martha, I appreciate your help." I don't know if he said it or thought it, but I can see it. Funny stuff.
Well, I know what you're thinking here. What's the point of all this? I guess it is simple. Laugh. Laugh a lot. To the surprise of many, I laugh. The movie that makes me laugh the most? "It's A Mad,Mad World." Funniest scene in a movie? My brothers were with me and it had to do with a trunk and a highway. Funniest group? Bible Bowl people. I have a lot funny stories with family, friends and Bible Bowlers. I think it is important to laugh. So, today, laugh a little. I don't think it will make your problems disappear, but it might lighten the load. Thanks again for reading...
