At this morning’s meeting with the rostered leaders of our conference a presentation was made by the Improv Therapy Group. They exist to provided therapy for many different groups. One of them is for clergy like me. The two presenters shared the basics of their group then said they were going to lead us in an improv exercise. If you know anything about improv it means acting and making it up as go you along. Hearing that word on our zoom meeting brought fear to this introvert’s heart! I immediately thought of leaving the meeting, but I was the leader so that wasn’t an option. So, I gritted my teeth and continued to listen. Well, I have to say I did something I haven’t done in quite a while… I belly laughed. You know what I mean… you laugh so hard it makes your belly hurt. I needed that so much!

Have you ever seen the picture of Jesus laughing? I can’t share it with you because of copywrite laws. So, I invite you to do an internet search and take a look. Did Jesus laugh? I say, “Absolutely!” In the book of Hebrews, it says that Jesus was tested in every way we are. We also know that He was fully human and fully God. So, I think that means Jesus experienced every emotion we do. And I imagine there were many times Jesus couldn’t help but laugh. He probably laughed when he watched the disciples haul in the extra-large catch of fish that swamped the boat. I can also see him suppressing a giggle when Peter was walking on the water.

I’ve heard it said, “Laughter is the best medicine” and I believe it. These past 18 months have literally sucked the joy out of life, haven’t they? It felt so good to laugh this morning. And like I said, I’m sure Jesus needed to laugh too. His ministry was certainly filled with trying times and laughter helped his body and soul. So, when was the last time you laughed so hard your belly ached? If it’s been a while, I encourage you to find something funny… maybe a joke book, a You Tube video, or a funny TV show. In Ecclesiastes it says:

…there is a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance…

Laugh my friends! I guarantee you will feel better…okay…except for the sore belly… ;-)

See you Sunday!

Pastor Lu