In his book ‘The Humor Of Christ’,[i]
Elton Trueblood identifies the sarcasm, wit and humor that appear in the words
of Jesus. A good example is when Jesus first refuses to heal a Gentile woman.
He seems to insult her when he says; “It
isn’t right to give the children’s food to the dogs.” She quips back; “Yes, but even the dogs can eat the scraps
that fall from the table.”
At our first read of that encounter, we are appalled that
sweet Jesus would say something so mean. It is more likely that he was cajoling
and teasing her and she responded in kind. In the gospel conversations we find Jesus to
be more human than we can imagine.
While most of us have a funny bone, there are limits.
Sometimes a witty comment betrays an underlying tension. Humor is sometimes a
mask for contempt.
We need to be mindful of humor’s edge and not use it to
humiliate and abuse others. Teasing can sometimes be interpreted as disrespect.
Beyond childish humor lies adult humor. Beyond that lies disrespect and
contempt. As we joke we need to be sensitive to the heart of our speech. What
lies within us waiting for an entertaining moment to reveal itself?
The Apostle Paul often spoke to how we should behave toward
each other.
Colossians 3:
12 Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and
dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness
and patience. 13 Bear
with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance
against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14 And over all these
virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your
hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be
thankful.
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