Bring Me Laughter...the Right Kind

Have you ever been given something that seemed just too good to be true? You can’t believe that something so undeserved has happened to you and you wonder what’s the catch?

The story of Sarah’s laughter in the Bible (Genesis 18) gives an example of someone who found it difficult to accept God’s blessings. Sarah had a hard time trusting that God would give her a miracle. Sarah, as Abraham’s wife, stood with Abraham as he waited years for God to fulfill His promise to give them a son. After years turned into decades, Sarah’s human nature kicked in. How could she have a baby when she was old enough to be a great-grandmother? It just wasn’t possible! But then, when hope had all but disappeared, God sent three visitors to Abraham to affirm that yes, He would give them a baby. An eavesdropping Sarah couldn’t help but laugh with incredulity. How could this be?

In a small way I can relate to Sarah. Recently God has opened a door for my family that just seems too amazing. Guarding my heart, I’m having a hard time accepting that yes, God is blessing us with a great opportunity. I don’t know where my optimism has gone, but I somehow think that surely the other shoe will drop. Whether or not I’ve been burned by previous experiences, why is it so hard to trust? To happily receive good things? My “believe it, when I see it” attitude is pretty pathetic!

Fortunately for Sarah and for me God is patient and merciful. “Now the LORD was gracious to Sarah as He had said, and the LORD did for Sarah what He had promised.” Genesis 21:1 (NIV) Sarah did have a son. “Sarah said, ‘God has brought me laughter, and everyone who hears about this will laugh with me.’ And she added, ‘Who would have said to Abraham that Sarah would nurse children? Yet I have borne him a son in his old age.’" Genesis 21:6-7.

As God continues to help me learn to laugh with joy at His blessings I know that I can count on Him to keep His promises. I hope you will too!

Announcements

• During Radiant's new Fusion service Saturday nights at 6:15pm, 1st-5th graders will be teaming up for their own combined service in Elevate, called Jelevate! This special summer service will include new, fun elements along with our great weekend curriculum! All 1st-5th graders will check-in to Elevate at 6:15pm beginning June 6th.
• During the summer months kids in HD can now take a little of HD with them when they travel. We'll be providing HD logo signs for kids to bring with them on their trips. As they venture out and take photos we're asking them to include their HD sign in the picture then email the photo to HD. We'll then post the photos on our website and in our HD ministry areas. It's Roadtrippin' with HD!
• We are gearing up for our HD Kidfest Kaleidoscope Summer Event , July 20-24, and will need your help to make it a success. Look out for volunteer sign-ups to take place in the next few weeks.