The Air Conditioning of the Soul

 

A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones. (Proverbs 17:22 ESV).

 

Our reading today simply declares that laughter is “good medicine.” I often say that laughter is the air conditioning of the soul. However, there are those times when laughter is very difficult. Earlier in the book of wisdom Solomon writes: “Even in laughter the heart may ache” (Proverbs 14:13). This is that experience when you put on the semblance of happiness for others. At social events you might even genuinely have a good time, but later, when you’re alone again, the grief and tears can all come flooding back. That is not what Solomon means by “a joyful heart.”

 

We can learn from the example set by Jesus. He wept on his way to the tomb of a dear friend (cf. John 11:35). He was overwhelmed with grief and sorrow as he prepared to die for us (cf. Matthew 26:38). Jesus’ acquaintance with grief gave him insight and empathy for others who were grieving. God is able to use us too in our times of brokenness to show others the love and care of Jesus.

 

The joyful heart is achieved when we recognize that there is always hope yet to be revealed in our lives. The joyful heart is found when we are able to laugh at ourselves in a way that leads us to recognize God is still shaping and changing us to be fit for our eternal home. The joyful heart is one that has been filled with the wisdom of God so we may discern the temporary nature of our present circumstance.

 

James Stovall said it well: Laughter is good medicine for the soul. Our world is desperately in need of more medicine. Perhaps you are one of those in need of that medicine. I have found it in reflection over my own personal experience. I am often forced to laugh heartily at myself. Times when I have miserably failed and times when I have gloriously succeeded all contribute to my laughter. In fact, most of the time I just shake my head and marvel at how God has made up for my lack of perspective. I’m sure I have been the source of much laughter to Him as He wonders at my stubborn resistance to His good purpose.