(c) 2024 Anna M. K. Hazen
Life is unpredictable, filled with unexpected twists and turns. But what if the challenges we face are imbued with a sense of divine humor? In this chapter, we’ll explore how laughter and joy often accompany new beginnings, supported by Scripture and biblical examples that showcase God’s playful involvement in our lives. Sometimes, it seems like God has an unmatched flair for the dramatic!
Take Genesis 18:10-15, for example. In the story of Abraham and Sarah, God promises them a son, despite their advanced age. Sarah overhears the promise and laughs at the impossibility of it. When God confronts her about her laughter, He replies, “Is anything too hard for the Lord?” This highlights how God offers hope in circumstances that seem completely ludicrous. It’s almost as if God was thinking, “Just wait until you see what I have in store—you’ll need an excellent sense of humor to keep up!”
God’s laughter is not one of mockery, but rather a gentle reminder of His sovereignty and power. The unexpected promise brings with it a sense of joy, showing that our human limitations can never contain God’s infinite possibilities.
Psalm 126:2 tells us, “When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dream. Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy.” Laughter can be a delightful side effect of God’s restoration and blessing. Think back to those trials you’ve faced that transformed into moments of silly joy—perhaps like when you attempted a new hobby and unintentionally redefined your haircut instead!
I remember a particularly challenging season when I lost my job—a moment filled with uncertainty and fear. At first, I couldn’t see beyond the disheartening news. But as I navigated the application process and attended networking events, I found unexpected bursts of joy in spontaneous moments. I once found myself laughing with new friends over a series of potential interview fails—each blunder somehow lightening the weight of the situation. Eventually, this journey led me to a job that not only matched my skills but exceeded my expectations, allowing me to thrive in ways I never dreamed possible.
Proverbs 16:9 reminds us, “In their hearts, humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” No matter how carefully we plot our lives, God holds the ultimate authority in steering our paths. As we navigate new beginnings, it’s essential to remain open to God’s guidance, even when it arrives in the most unexpected forms.
Consider the story of Jonah. When God called Jonah to prophesy to Nineveh, he tried to escape, resulting in a series of amusing and ironic events, including a not-so-great ride inside a fish! You can almost hear Jonah thinking, “Not quite the travel experience I signed up for!” Ultimately, Jonah learned that God’s purpose prevails, leading him to fulfill a mission far beyond his original plans. Just like Jonah’s detour transformed into a divine appointment he really did not want to attend, sometimes our misadventures guide us to our true calling.
Ecclesiastes 3:1 states, “For everything, there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.” Every new beginning is its own unique season. Embrace the joys and challenges as part of God’s design in your life. Reflect on how laughter can lighten the load during transitions, turning anxiety into excitement and reminding us that unexpected changes can yield glorious outcomes—like discovering that a rainy day is simply an excellent excuse to host an impromptu dance party in your living room!
Life is full of surprises, and sometimes, God’s laughter serves as the soundtrack to our new beginnings. Just as He filled Abraham and Sarah with hope, He invites us to trust in His plans—both humorous and profound.
So, I invite you to pause and consider the areas in your life where you might need to embrace God’s laughter. Are there moments of distress or uncertainty waiting to be transformed into opportunities for joy? Remember, with every unexpected plot twist, God is guiding you toward greater blessings. Seek joy in your journey—it just might be the key to unlocking a new beginning filled with divine laughter! And while you’re at it, don’t forget to keep your wicks trimmed and your lanterns filled with oil. THE KING IS COMING!