Ecclesiastes 8:15(NRSV)
So I commend enjoyment, for there is nothing better for people under the sun than to eat, and drink, and enjoy themselves, for this will go with them in their toil through the days of life that God gives them under the sun.
One of my favorite images is of Jesus laughing. There are a lot of different pieces of artwork, icons and images depicting such. I had this particular picture hanging in my office for a time to remind me not to always take everything too seriously. It reminds me now not to be frightened or worry…not to be anxious…God is in control and working beautifully through this time.
God has an incredible sense of humor. God is funny. God the Almighty, Eternal, and All-Powerful has a great sense of humor.
No, not because the Almighty gave someone a ‘nose or ears like that’ or because some people grow hair on their toes. There are much better examples of God’s delightful, insightful comedy.
For instance, look at the world the Lord made. Watch a few nature shows and notice all the ridiculous creatures God put on this beautiful planet. God designed them perfectly, and also made …well, funny. Warthogs, proboscis monkeys, penguins, squirrels . . . He made them to amuse and fascinate His favorite creations – His people! Like a great Dad, God loves to make us laugh.
During this time of quarantine, it’s as if someone hit the pause button for most of society. Things don’t always seem so fun and lighthearted. The days are blending together and boredom is hitting some people harder than others. Since we have not collectively experienced anything like this pandemic in our lifetime, it’s easy to feel anxious from the unknowns and worries over loss of life, jobs and normalcy. It’s also not unusual to experience boredom.
What if this could be a year of wonders for us? This doesn’t mean we have to make a huge discovery or come up with some novel theory. Perhaps during this time we can make room for self-care and self-reflection that will be crucial for our faith development. Perhaps we can learn how to love others better during this time, or even begin a new hobby. Whatever we do during this unique time, it can be an opportunity to explore the good things God has planned for us. It can be a great time for us to connect as best we can and try to laugh - and make others laugh - just a little bit more.
Pastor Michael Williams