Laugh! It helps...
"A cheerful heart is a good medicine, but a downcast spirit dries up the bones." (Proverbs 17:22, NRSV)
Self-deprecation is often what keeps me grounded and centered toward the Lord. Yesterday was one filled with struggle and stress. There were things I could not control and I placed them gingerly into the Lord's hands. I daily need to remind myself that I cannot do anything apart from Jesus.
("I am the vine, you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them bear much fruit, because apart from me you can do nothing." (John 15:5, NRSV)
In some ways having a good laugh at oneself can be cathartic. Laughter has long been known to reduce stress. It is my go to on days that don't follow the path I think they should go. The alternative would be that I stress over every detail of life, releasing harmful cortisol into my bloodstream, and generally have a meltdown. Nobody I know wants to have meltdowns, yet we are surrounded by many people in these situations.
There could be a close correlation between the rise of internet memes (a representation meant to make light of a situation) during the COVID-19 quarantine season we are in. The situation is serious so let's laugh and make fun of it. All the while we are intelligent enough to heed precautions and follow guidelines.
This morning, I saw this news release and thought it would make a good meme. Things are bad around the world and here in our own country as well. One knows we are in troubling times when an icon confectionery treat like Peeps from right here in PA is ceasing production due to the COVID-19.
Friends, we love and serve a God who holds the whole world in divine hands. I declare the God who loves us and desires our good holds us in divine hands. All the turmoil swirling around us can be overwhelming if we allow it to hold sway over us. How about we allow God to hold sway over our heart and soul? It is better than stressing about things we can't control. While you and I practice safe distancing, proper hand washing, and many other guidelines for these troubling times, I command you to NOT run to the store to hoard and stockpile Peeps! Please, just NO!!