2011.7.25 Monday Morning!

Greetings and best wishes from Pilgrim Presbyterian Church in Vinita, Oklahoma.

Have you ever wondered why humor is lacking in our practice of the Christian life? When it comes to our religion, do we take ourselves too seriously. We speak of joy and praise, but when was the last time you heard laughter in a church service?

Are we so conditioned to be formal and proper that we repress humor and laughter while at worship? Why in church is solemnity viewed as a mark of piety and laughter a sign of irreverence?

There are a few Old Testament stories that may cause you to smile, even laugh. If there is any humor in the New Testament it is hidden to the casual reader.

Yet, I am sure that Jesus was not a humorless person. He loved parties, and sour people tend to shun parties. He took children in his arms, and I've never seen a person cuddle a baby or small child without a smile or a tender laugh.

Laughter is good for us. Humor has its way of preserving sanity in times of woe.
Should I laugh at this story, where the guest could well be me?

SUNDAY DINNER
A young couple invited their elderly pastor for Sunday dinner. While they were in the kitchen preparing the meal, the minister asked their son what they were having.
"Goat," the little boy replied.
"Goat?" replied the startled pastor. "Are you sure about that?"
"Yes," said the youngster. "I heard Dad say to Mom, "Today is just as good as any to have the old goat for dinner!"

Blessed are you if you can laugh at yourself; for you shall never ceased to be amused.

Richard

2011.5.9 Monday Morning!

Greetings and best wishes from Pilgrim Presbyterian Church, Vinita, Oklahoma.  Thank you for your 'visit'.  I hope you will find these MONDAY MORNING messages helpful on your spiritual journey.
 
On that journey, I urge you not to give up the cultivation of worship.  The act of worship, in one's daily quiet time, and with the community of faith on Sunday, is a personal meeting of the soul with God.
 
We may talk "about God", and we may work out ways and means for a practical application of our spiritual insights, but these are not enough.  A personal meeting of the soul with God is primary to our Christian life.
 
The act of worship calls for intense, daily devotion.  It is a demanding commitment which will not be reached along lines of least resistance.
 
Peace. 

In friendship,
 
Richard