Pause

Take three deep breaths, eyes closed, and repeat these words in your head:

Breathe the Spirit in,
Breathe distractions out.

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Listen

You, divine beings! Give to the Lord— give to the Lord glory and power! Give to the Lord the glory due his name! Bow down to the Lord in holy splendor!

The Lord’s voice is over the waters; the glorious God thunders; the Lord is over the mighty waters. The Lord’s voice is strong; the Lord’s voice is majestic.

Psalm 29:1-4

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Think

Give to the Lord! But what in the world could I possibly give to the God who has everything? The psalmist suggests glory and power, but I’m reminded of a song our choir sang every year of my childhood titled “The Jesus Gift” by Gilbert Martin. It goes: “Shall I gather emeralds / Shall I bring him gold / Shall I shower diamonds / White hard, bright cold / Shall I spangle jewels / Like stars above / Give him laughter / Bring peace filled laughter / Offer him warm laughter and love.”

We were created to be in relationship with God — Jesus calls us children of God and calls us friends. And indeed, when we think of the people we laugh with the most, it’s often our closest family and friends. Look for God’s sense of humor in your life today. Give to the Lord your laughter and love!

Lauren Holder

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Pray

God of laughter and love, you created the platypus. Clearly you have a sense of humor. May I join you in laughter today! Amen.

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Go

Let us go out into the world, rejoicing in the power of the Spirit!

Thanks be to God.

Book of Common Prayer