Ecclesiastes 3:4
...a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance,
These verses from Ecclesiastes tell me that life is full of all kinds of experiences and feelings. Some are unpleasant or even awful, but just as many are positive, joyful and uplifting. All of these feelings are a gift from God. We are not robots; what a complex, rich experience is going on in each and every one of our hearts! This is truly a blessing, and laughter one of His greatest gifts.
Holy Lord, thank you for all of the emotions I feel in my heart. I am especially grateful for the joy and laughter! Help me to remember you in thanksgiving when I am sad and in no mood for laughter. There is a time for everything. Amen
Becky, transforming
Ecclesiastes 3:4 “A time for everything.” These verses and many others reveal to us the cycle of life, even for Solomon in 945 BC (approximately). Sometimes we feel isolated in our grief with no thought of anyone but ourselves and certainly not a future of laughter and happiness. But life offers us both and these verses reveal that. I am glad Solomon recorded these observations of life as they offer hope that the future may be better. Prayer: gracious God, thank you for Solomon’s wisdom. Amen
Ecclesiastes 3:4 a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance
We played Irish music at my son Ed’s wake; it was like being in an Irish Pub. Ed loved Irish music. I wept that day and many days since, but I have also laughed a lot and sometimes feel guilty about that. But life does go on and God is the director. He gives me the strength and understanding to know that this life will not be without challenges. I simply have to live with the challenges and with God’s help, get through them.
Dearest Lord, you give me the strength to deal with all that this life sends me.…
Ecclesiastes 3:4 This verse says as much about moderation as it does about laughter. As much as laughter can lighten our hearts there is a time when it may not be welcomed. I remember the famous scene from the Mary Tyler Moore show when her character, Mary Richards was at the funeral for “Chuckles the Clown,” and could not hold back her laughter. It’s worth a look and brings this verse to life in a humorous way.
Prayer - Holy God, You hold us in the palm of Your hand as we ride the waves of our emotions through this journey of life. We take comfort in knowing You are with us in all circumstances. Amen
TAA