This Sunday - April 19th3rd Sunday of Easter — Holy Humor Sunday

Acts 2:14a, 36-41 ~ Psalm 116:1-4, 12-19 ~ 1 Peter 1:17-23 ~ Luke 24:13-35

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During the Middle Ages a tradition began on the 2nd Sunday of Easter to have a bit of fun.  On that day, the court jester would dress up as the Priest and lead worship as only a jester could do.  It was a way to have a bit of fun, but there was also a message in the fun:  Jesus had triumphed over the greatest threat to humanity, death.  What could be more important to celebrate than that?  It was often said on this Sunday, the Resurrection is God’s joke on the devil.  The joke goes like this:  God offers Jesus, the Son, in exchange for all of humanity.  The devil thinks this is a pretty good deal and makes the trade but then through the resurrection, the devil even looses Jesus and ends up with nothing.  

We’re celebrating Holy Humor Sunday a week later (I guess the jokes on us).  So this year, come join us for a special service this week with a couple of surprises worked in.  

After reading the scriptures for this day, discuss the following questions with someone else:

1. Tell your best joke.

2. Do you think it’s ok to laugh in church?  Why or why not?

3. Why do you think Church is often thought of as somber and serious rather than joyful and playful?