Why Laughter is Good Medicine for Life

Laughter. It’s a gift that reminds us that even in the midst of life’s struggles, we are alive, connected, and human. I’ve been reflecting on humor lately—specifically the “why did the old man” jokes that have been floating around in my head. They’re lighthearted, sure, but they’re also packed with a deeper truth: we’re never too old, too tired, or too weighed down to find joy in the absurdities of life.

Take Sarah and Abraham, for instance. When God told Abraham that Sarah would bear a son in her old age, Sarah laughed (Genesis 18:12). It wasn’t a cynical laugh, but a startled one—one that came from the sheer improbability of joy entering their lives at such a time. God heard her laugh, and instead of rebuking her, He turned it into a name: Isaac, meaning “he laughs.” Humor and faith met there, creating a legacy of laughter tied to God’s promises.

Now, back to those jokes.

• Why did the old man buy Depends at Walmart?
  Because wisdom often comes wrapped in practicality—and, let’s face it, a little humility too! Proverbs 17:22 says, “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” Sometimes, we laugh at ourselves because it’s the best medicine we can take.
• Why did the old man cross the street?
  Because he was drawn by something sweet—like the cupcake in the bakery window—but then remembered his diabetes! In the same way, the Apostle Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 10:23, “Everything is permissible, but not everything is beneficial.” Sometimes wisdom is knowing when to turn around.
• Why did the old man go to Sit and Fit at the community center?
  Because staying connected to people (and maybe checking out the ladies in their leotards) keeps us alive in spirit! Ecclesiastes 3:4 tells us there’s “a time to weep and a time to laugh.” A little lightheartedness is part of the balance of life.
• Why did the old man need noise-cancelling headphones? So he could hear himself think above the ringing in his ears…:) (these are a good deal and if you click this link it helps support my ministry 🙂 ) Click on the link it will take you to some excellent Sony headphones…

Humor, like faith, calls us to rise above our circumstances. It doesn’t deny the pain or challenges we face but transforms them. As Paul writes in Philippians 4:4, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” Humor can be our way of rejoicing in the everyday, trusting that God sees us—even when we’re the ones sneezing in aisle five and grabbing for the Depends.

So, as I sit here reflecting on the peculiarities of growing older, I’m reminded to keep the wheels turning—literally and figuratively. And if one day you see me locking my wheelchair wheels, standing up for the punchline, and proclaiming, “I’m not done laughing yet!”—know this: I’m not just telling a joke. I’m living out God’s invitation to find joy in this journey.

Keep laughing, friends. It’s one of the best ways to show you’re still alive—and still trusting in His promises.

Blessings,
Charlie