Christian Living

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Larry Lilly’s Letter Tuesday September 5, 2006

I recall that on more than one occasion I was told, “Oh, Larry, get serious.” Please do not err in thinking that this command, for it is always given in an authoritative voice, ceased when I came of age. It did not and I hope it never ceases.

Why?

Simple.

A merry heart doeth good like a medicine. At least that’s what the Bible says and I think the Bible, the manual for the human experience knows more about our nature than some shrink.

Due to some strange quirk I am one of the chosen or goofy, depending on your view, who can and loves to see and express the humor in situations. Irony can often be humorous. If you think about it even funerals can have an element of humor. Years ago a friend told the story of a young preacher called upon to conduct the memorial services for a noted, wealthy rogue in the small town in which he ministered. A wise older preacher advised the younger man: “If you find you are at a loss for words, simply say, ‘let us pray’ and thus end the situation.” The younger man soon was at a loss and followed the wise man’s advice saying, “And now let us pray.” So far so good. Only, only the words of the prayer were burned in the mind and heart of every last mourner for all time. The young minister closed his prayer thusly:

“And dear Lord we hope he ain’t where we think he is.”

I confess that having conducted over 2000 memorial services I have seen, etched as though in marble, the expression on many faces that echoed the prayer of the young preacher. Though having thought the words, God, in His bounteous mercy has spared me the dreaded slip of the tongue on this one.

I admit that ‘life is serious’ but so far I haven’t found much in life that does not contain a little humor.

Robert Hutchins said:

“It is not so important to be serious as it is to be serious about the important things. The monkey wears an expression of seriousness which would do credit to any college student, but the monkey is serious because he itches.”

Could it be that this itch is the real problem with the many oh, so serious, clerics?

To be sure it will pay eternal dividends to seriously evaluate our relationship and walk with Christ.

Larry Lilly Copyright © 2006 Use with credit

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