Jocularity

From My Perspective - - -

The idea of jocularity is understood by the definition, namely, “Characterized by joking; Given to joking.” Humor is part of our total being. We have an emotional range that enables us to move from weeping to laughter depending on the circumstances surrounding one. And indeed, the Bible allows (Ecclesiastes 3:1-4 states some obvious contrasts in life): “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted; a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance…” The thought behind this is to realize the balance between the range of emotions and experiences so ones actions fall within the perspective of the “time” for such an expression.

When one comes into Church Settings, there needs to be an understanding and refinement of what separates one thing from another. For instance, there is often some confusion regarding Joy on the one hand with Happiness on the other. In pausing to reflect on the possibilities here, one can readily determine that much of what we intend by “happiness” is dependent on the experiences and circumstances of the moment. If one receives an unexpected gift, it results in happiness; if one expects a gift – but doesn’t receive one – then it results in unhappiness. A simple way for a Church-Oriented person to understand this is basically – Happiness usually comes as a result of ones experience/circumstance, whereas Joy always comes as a result of relationship with Jesus Christ. John 15:1-11 gives as clear a statement about this relationship when Jesus summarizes in verse 11: “These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.”

In Ephesians 5:3 through 7, the Apostle Paul establishes parameters and guidelines for the life of a follower of Jesus Christ. He couches it in terms of what is “…fitting for saints…” And then, he states there should be “…neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks...” In understanding and applying the Bible, it needs to be done with a gracious spirit. There are any number of people where one would come to the conclusion that if they ever smiled in Church their face might crack! By the same token, there are those who feel jokes and humor will hold the attention of the people and develop rapport. There needs to be great care exercised to remember one is coming to a Church – not a Comedy Club. We need to give people credit for their basic desire to gather with God’s people to Worship God – not to be entertained by men or musicians.

When people come to Church, they should find it to be a place where there is: (1) Reverence – we are coming to Worship The Holy God; (2) Prayer – we are to enter His gates with Thanksgiving, and His courts with Praise; (3) Singing – Psalms, Hymns, Spiritual Songs that focus upon The Holy and Sovereign God and His Grace, Mercy and Truth; (4) Fellowship – we have come to commune with God and to focus upon Him with those of like precious faith; (5) Instruction – we need to hear God’s Word accurately proclaimed so we can be exposed to “the whole counsel of God” – and can sense the Holy Spirit guiding us into more of God’s Truth and wonderful plan for our lives. We don’t need artificial distractions! We don’t need an effort to make me feel good! We don’t need snacks and informality! We get that all week long in the places we frequent. The Church is sometimes referred to as being “The Sanctuary” – a Holy, Sacred Place of refuge and quiet. The Book of Psalms is a model for us to be always focused upon the Living God.

Consider these things with me and let us study and put forth the sincere effort to implement Hebrews 10:23 through 25, “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near…”