Let Laughter Fill your Mouth

“When the Lord brought back the captivity of Zion, We were like those who dream. Then our mouth was filled with laughter, And our tongue with singing. Then they said among the nations, “The Lord has done great things for them.” The Lord has done great things for us, And we are glad.” Psalm 126:1-3 NKJV

In an interesting story titled “'Runner's face' and why running makes you look older, according to experts” published over the weekend, the writer said “Athletes benefit from the many positive effects that exercise has on the body both internally and externally. However, there are also some negative aspects that, depending on the sport and the person practicing it, may affect the individual more or less. This is the case, for example, of the so-called 'runner's face'. This is the term used to describe in a colloquial and simple way the facial changes experienced by many regular long-distance runners. These changes are characterized by a thinner and older appearance, loss of volume in the cheeks and cheekbones and the appearance of more pronounced wrinkles.” 

And, you know, while the so-called ‘runner’s face’ might be considered a negative thing, given the benefits of running regularly, I’d say the wrinkles are worth having. As are the wrinkles that should come with having a ‘grateful face.” You see, as believers, we should be as overjoyed as God’s people were the day He set them free from their captivity and they returned to Zion. The psalmist said they were so appreciative of their release that their mouths were filled with laughter and their tongues filled with singing…the same laughter and singing that should be so a part of who we are every day that we actually exhibit dramatic facial changes that manifest in the form of laugh lines and crow’s feet. After all, the Lord has done great things for them and the Lord has done great things for us! That should have us feeling glad 24 hours a day!

So, take the time to daily consider all the ways God has been good to you my friend. Write them down and rejoice over them. And then, with a mouth full of laughter, declare to the nations and to your neighbors, “The Lord has done great things for me and I am glad!”

Heavenly Father, thank You for doing such great things for us! While we were lost in our sin, You sent your Son to free us from the captivity and bondage of that sin and brought us back to You. We were prisoners and You set us free! Help us to be set apart from the world by the joy we show in all circumstances and by the boldness we have in declaring your goodness. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!