Meditation: Genesis 18:1-15
Saint Cyril of Alexandria, Bishop and Doctor of the Church
Sarah laughed. (Genesis 18:12)
Do you remember the last time you had a really good laugh?
In today’s readings, we see two different kinds of occasions for laughter. First, Sarah laughs at the idea that she, an old woman, could have a child. It could be the laughter of joy at the news, or it could be the laughter of incredulity at such an outlandish prediction. Either way, Sarah’s reaction shows a freedom and lightheartedness that we don’t often ascribe to biblical characters. Then in the Gospel, we can well imagine the centurion laughing with joy and gratitude after Jesus cures his servant.
We see people laughing in other places in Scripture, too. The psalmist, upon returning from exile, proclaims, “Our mouths were filled with laughter; our tongues sang for joy” (Psalm 126:2). As the ark of the covenant is brought into Jerusalem, David is so happy that he dances and shouts for joy (2 Samuel 6:12-14). Jesus has a sense of humor as well. When he and Nathanael first meet, Nathanael quips, “Can anything good come from Nazareth?” Then Jesus shoots back, “Here is a true Israelite. There is no duplicity in him!” (John 1:46, 47). He seems to be in on Nathanael’s joke, and he doesn’t mind it at all.
Think about the week that is just coming to an end. Have you laughed much? If not, look back, and see if there were moments for joy that you might have missed. And if you think you’ve laughed plenty, well, laughter is one thing you can’t get too much of! Think about God’s most recent blessings in your life. Think about an embarrassing moment that now brings a smile to your face. And if all else fails, ask someone to tell you a good joke!
Our inconveniences, our challenges, even our happy memories are all a part of our life in Christ. They all present opportunities to laugh with the Lord, even if things aren’t going as smoothly as we’d like. There’s nothing like a good laugh to remind us that no matter what we are experiencing, we still have a lot to smile about. Remember: you are a child of God and an heir to his kingdom.
“Jesus, thank you for the gift of laughter. Ignite my joy today. Help me find you in in every situation today so that I can rejoice with you.”
(Psalm) Luke 1:46-50, 53-55
Matthew 8:5-17