It’s okay to laugh!

It’s okay to laugh! Sometimes, I think the people of God forget that it’s okay to laugh. We forget that joy and holiness are not opposites. The Jesus that I know is not some grim, stern, angry taskmaster. No—He’s the kind of friend who delights in laughter. With you! Years ago, walking through the tide pools at Birch Bay with my son Brayden, he slipped on the wet sand and landed flat. There was a huge splat! But instead of crying, he began to laugh. He grinned at me and said, “I’m practicing my falling.” We laughed until our sides hurt. As a dad, I didn’t enjoy that he had stumbled, but I loved his spirit. And in that moment, I sensed God smiling too. “The Lord delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love.” (Psalm 147:11, NIV) God’s delight isn’t in perfection—it’s in our trust. He doesn’t scold us when we trip and fall. No, He rejoices when we get back up. I imagine Jesus telling parables with a twinkle in His eye, chuckling as He described the foolish man who built his house on the sand. His humor wasn’t mocking—it was grace-filled joy. Whenever I have the opportunity to laugh freely, to allow joy to pour out of my heart and spirit, I feel unburdened by guilt or fear. And I think, I know the source of this joy. That’s Him. That’s the Jesus that I know. So, my friend, today—what do you need to laugh at? And how would it change your life to know Jesus is not laughing at you, but with you? Lord Jesus, thank You for laughter. Thank You for joy that heals and restores. Help me to see Your smile in my life today—in my mistakes that are redeemed, in moments of lightness, and in the beauty of hope. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen. Never forget, my friend, you are a miracle. Your friend, Grant Fishbook