Every Sunday morning, there is a quick meeting in my office with the pastors, program directors, lay leader, and live stream coordinator to ensure that we are all on the same page as we start the day. Usually, it is a fairly routine meeting with no surprises. Then yesterday happened.
In the middle of the meeting, Amanda burst out laughing. She explained that she had just gotten a text from Lauren that said, “Tell Tom I’m looking forward to the best sermon ever today. We’ll be attending FUMC Odessa with Bob’s grandmother.”
Being the mature, sophisticated, and incredibly intelligent pastor that I am, I knew I couldn’t let this one go. So Amanda made a video recording for Lauren’s enjoyment. I said, “Hell hath no fury like a pastor scorned. I will know you watched the best sermon ever today when you hit the like button for our live stream broadcast of the service.”
Yesterday afternoon I checked. Sure enough Lauren had hit the like button so I knew she did see the best sermon ever.
That’s right. I have a whole church filled with wisenheimers and I wouldn’t have it any other way. These people, whom I dearly love, make my life interesting and fun.
I feel sorry for those people who take every moment of life so seriously that they suck all the joy and celebration out of life. I am certain that’s not what God wants.
Don’t get me wrong. There are bad, worrisome things out there. Coronavirus, crime, a huge earthquake off the coast of California, the global stock market plunge, and oil markets crashing, are just a few of the issues we face this morning. But the bad and trying never have the final say; God does.
Jesus said, “I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.” (John 10:10b)
If you know Jesus, even in the midst of the storms of life, you also know joy, laughter, purpose, and a security that transcends the momentary challenges you face. That’s what enables us to live life to its fullest.
So enjoy today and know that God’s got it under control. If that doesn’t bring a smile to your face, nothing will.
Prayer: Dear Gracious Heavenly God, help me embrace this day and live it to its fullest. Fill my heart with joy, my mind with wisdom, and my mouth with praise. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
Laugh, love, and celebrate that God is good. That’s what matters.
Also, just for the record, I feel bad that Bob and the children are going to have to start attending church without Lauren, but it is what it is.
Ok thank I pray your day is filled with joy and laughter.
Tom Robbins
Daily Devotionals by Dr. Tom Robbins 