A very old Easter tradition that is, apparently, making a comeback is Holy Laughter (or “Bright”) Sunday.  This day is observed the Sunday after Easter.  The ancient church leaders concluded that the Lord “tricked” Satan with the resurrection.  Satan, they thought, believed he had won when Jesus breathed his last on the cross.  The old adversary thought he had orchestrated the events of Holy Week and now, after his failure in the Temptation of Jesus in the wilderness years earlier, he had succeeded in stopping the Lord’s great plan of salvation.

But it didn’t work out that way.

On the third day Jesus rose from the grave, Victor over sin and death; providing salvation for all who will believe.  It had all been God’s plan the whole time!

So, following Easter celebrations the Church leaders thought it proper to have some fun, rejoicing in the trick the Lord had played on the devil.  They told jokes, played tricks on one another, and had parties.  The boys picked on the girls (apparently, “soaking” with water was popular) and the girls retaliated, as they have through the ages.

Churches around the world are bringing Holy Laughter Sunday back.  Pastors are telling their best jokes, people are having fun at church, rejoicing in the Good News of the Resurrection.

Personally, I’m all for finding ways to keep the joy of Easter going.  What do you think?