“My wish for you is that you continue. Continue to be how and who you are, to astonish a mean world with your acts of kindness. Continue to allow humor to lighten the burden of your tender heart….”
Maya Angelou
In my office at the church, I have a copy of a sketch by Willis Wheatley depicting Jesus laughing. It was originally titled ‘Christ the Liberator’ but over the years has been referred to as ‘The Laughing Christ’. Of all the traditional and historic depictions of Jesus, this is the one that brings me the ability to pause and reflect on life’s challenges.
Jesus, the Human, Who was tortured and killed showed emotions throughout the Gospel accounts of His life. His compassion, love, tenderness, and empathy for the condition of people is documented: yet we don’t have any direct accounts of His laughter.
Laughter is therapeutic, cathartic and has the ability to infect others with joy. Just think of the video of a laughing baby, or the emotion we feel when an infant smiles at us. It changes perception of at least the moment, if not the day.
I believe Jesus not only laughed, but laughed often and heartedly with all His friends and family. How else could He have dealt with the burdens of humanity?
At Church By The Bay, we have little plastic Jesus figures to give away. Folks are encouraged to take 3; one to keep, and two to give to others. In doing so, we can give everyone we see a little Jesus to help them smile and follow His message of love, healing and prayer.
Tongue in cheek humor? Or genuine gratitude for the gift of humor to get us through life’s moments; you can decide. And if you feel the need for a ‘Little Jesus’ just reach out and we’ll get them to you.
I pray that all of us can laugh like Jesus, and like Pope Francis who we remember as he smiles with Jesus today. May he rest in peace.
Pastor Lou Strugala
NJSP, ACPO Chaplain
732-500-8489