Survival laughter

Albert Bogle June 20, 2026 1 0

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Psalm 126 (NIV-UK)

1 When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion,
    we were like those who dreamed.
2 Our mouths were filled with laughter,
    our tongues with songs of joy.
Then it was said among the nations,
    “The Lord has done great things for them.”
3 The Lord has done great things for us,
    and we are filled with joy.

4 Restore our fortunes, Lord,
    like streams in the Negev.
5 Those who sow with tears
    will reap with songs of joy.
6 Those who go out weeping,
    carrying seed to sow,
will return with songs of joy,
    carrying sheaves with them.

I mentioned earlier this week our visit with friends. Before long, the conversation always leads to an exchange of stories relating to health and wellbeing. The truth is, we have all been through the mill one way or another. We have encountered sorrow and disappointments in our families, in the churches we attend, and among the friends and acquaintances we meet in our neighbourhoods.

You may recall I mentioned how we laughed a great deal; part of that laughter was the acknowledgment that we had survived!

Often, when tension leaves the body, we realise we are safe in a secure place — among friends, where no one is judging — and that tension escapes through laughter. The salt tears in our eyes give us a glimpse of the light ahead.

Your friends, true friends, are part of God’s salt-and-light treatment for healing the soul. Value them, celebrate them, and keep them close. You see, they help us relive the goodness of God. They help us laugh back into life our redemption and survival. Above all, they can remind us that our arms are loaded — filled with blessings!

Prayer:

Lord,

The truth is

We haven’t just survived;

We have arrived in a good place

And we are truly grateful

Lord,

The dark times

The sad times

Still linger

But we have to celebrate our good fortune

To be alive

To have friends

To be able to remember

All our precious memories

Lord,

Receive our laughter

As our worshipful response

And bless it so that it becomes

Salt and light for others

Living through the darkness

Lord,

Shine your light

And let the saddest of hearts sing.

Sprinkle your salt

And scatter the gloom

Revive your church

And let laughter fill our homes

And hope return to our land.