August 4, 2021

I sometimes wish that the Bible was funnier. But then again, Jesus’ original audience would have laughed out loud at much of what He said. In one film version of His life, people rolled in the aisles when He suggested giving your child a scorpion instead of an egg when making a point about prayer.

My point is that man can’t live on seriousness alone. If, as we said yesterday, forgiveness wins the gold medal of the universe, humor at least gets the bronze, if not the silver. Even to woe-begotten Job, this promise comes: “He will yet fill your mouth with laughter and your lips with shouting.” (Job 8:21)

Humor, rightly employed, deflates our self-importance and puts the control back where it belongs: in the hands of God.

“Blessed are you, O Lord God, King of the Universe, for you give us all we need to sustain our lives and make our hearts glad; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.” (Grace at Meals – BCP p. 835)