Speaking to four sessions of the Pastors/Deacons/Spouses Retreat at Shocco Springs brought many delights, as well as a few surprises.  I love these occasions because I meet so many wonderful servants of God, and they are eager to have some stress relief in form of laughter.

When I was asked to lead these sessions, I was told I would primarily be speaking to the spouses because other sessions - some planned just for the men - would be going on at the same time.  I prepared accordingly.  To my surprise, I had as many men as I did women in each session.  They wanted a reprieve from the more serious meetings also.  I spoke on Laugh often, Love much, and Live well on Friday, Sept. 25, 2009, and on Show Me Your Glory on Sat., Sept. 26, 2009.

These people were eager to laugh; therefore, they provided the ideal audience.  As an icebreaker and a getting-to-know-you activity, I asked participants to pair up with someone they didn't know and quickly tell each other something funny that had happened in church.  Before the session ended, they wrote their own anecdotes for me to use at some future time.  What a hoot they were!

I am constantly reminded that God works through humor.  He wants his children to have cheerful hearts.  We all left refreshed and renewed.