Pastor's Weekly Word

When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. (Luke 1:41)

Happy 4^th of July! It is my hope that you are able to have some enjoyment today. Whether you are watching fireworks, spending time with friends or family, or simply experiencing a quieter break, may today be one of gratitude for the freedoms we so often forget we have. Even if you have to work today, I hope you can take a moment to give thanks for life.

We are in the middle of a series on laughter and the spiritual life. Sunday, we talked about how laughter can be contagious and can help break down relational barriers. Quite often it is through humorous experiences and laughter that people form a much closer bond to one another. I remember asking my grandmother one time what it was about my grandfather that caught her attention. Her reply simply was, “He makes me laugh.”

When Mary visits her cousin Elizabeth, who is also pregnant, to tell her the news of her own pregnancy, there is a ripple effect of gleeful laughter. Immediately the baby in Elizabeth’s womb leaps, causing Elizabeth to be filled with joy, followed by Mary joyfully exploding into song in the verses that follow. As one pastor points out, “This story literally exudes joy.”

Laughter and joy are contagious, they build relationships, they bring people closer together, and they fill our hearts to overflowing. Laughing together is an expression of communal joy, which is gift of the Holy Spirit. I hope you find time to spend with others in this way, enjoying the relational gift that holy laughter can bring.

Here is a link to a youtube video just for fun. I hope it puts a smile on your face: Video: Baby Laughing at Dog Eating Popcorn