Emma is our youth intern. Most of the time I love her – but sometimes, not so much.
Yesterday, Emma stood in the doorway of my office and sheepishly said, “Pastor Kit and I were cleaning up the youth area and we found some pot paraphernalia.”
At that moment, my heart sank. I couldn’t imagine any of our youth smoking pot, especially not in the youth area of our church campus.
This sad discovery meant I would have to meet with our youth and parents. It was going to be a heartbreaking event for our church.
As a million thoughts ran through my mind, I said, “What did you find? Was it a joint? What pot paraphernalia?”
At that moment, Emma grinned and pulled a tea kettle from behind her back as Pastor Kit burst into laughter in the hallway.
That’s right. A million comics out of work and Emma wants to be one. But, she did get me thinking.
Life is too short to take every moment seriously. One of the greatest tools God uses to bring healing, peace, and joy is laughter.
When was the last time you laughed? When was the last time you weren’t so consumed by the events of the day that you experienced joy?
On that wonderful first Christmas night, when the angel tells the shepherds of Jesus’ birth, the angel says,“Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.” (Luke 2:10)
By virtue of being followers of Jesus Christ, we are people of joy.
While life is not always easy or fun, don’t forget to laugh and enjoy God’s wonderful creation.
Prayer: Dear Gracious Heavenly God, thank you for sending your Son and bringing true joy into the world. Please use me to bring joy to others. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
I am certain God wants you to laugh and find joy in life. I hope you will.
Also, if you are looking for a capable but warped youth intern, I’ve got one for you.
I pray your day is filled with joy and laughter.
Tom Robbins
Daily Devotionals by Dr. Tom Robbins 