The Fun of Being Looney

Bishop Looney writes that there is no nobler calling than the ministry. Pastors interact with peoples' lives at their highest and lowest moments. Pastors point beyond themselves to God and seek to be a bridge between the human and divine. While our work is serious and life-changing, we can never take ourselves too seriously. In fact, the load of ministry might be too heavy to bear without the ability to laugh at oneself and with colleagues.It is freeing to realize that Jesus must have...
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Bishop Looney writes that there is no nobler calling than the ministry. Pastors interact with peoples' lives at their highest and lowest moments. Pastors point beyond themselves to God and seek to be a bridge between the human and divine. While our work is serious and life-changing, we can never take ourselves too seriously. In fact, the load of ministry might be too heavy to bear without the ability to laugh at oneself and with colleagues.It is freeing to realize that Jesus must have laughed heartily. Think of the humorous way Jesus critiques the religious leaders and others of his day. One was so eager to be noticed that he hired a trumpet player to announce a large gift. Others loved to pray piously on the street corners to be seen and applauded. Still others sought seats up front where everyone would surely notice. If it is recognition you want, that will be your reward.We have so elevated the divine Jesus that we have forgotten the humor of Jesus, who was accused of being a party animal and friend of sinners and who laughingly reminded them of the absurdity of criticizing a doctor for associating with sick people. For some reason, I have been given the kind of mind that can see and remember the humorous in my own life and in my service to the church. Some of that, I choose to share here, hoping that you will discover the humor in your own life and circumstances. Maybe our joy will attract others to the joy given by Christ.