Newsletter: April Fool

The time for jokes and jesting is almost upon us. April Fools’ Day is just around the corner. No one knows for sure the origins of the special day. Some have suggested that changing from the Julian to the Gregorian calendar in the 1500s created some confusion concerning the beginning of the new year. Others believe that some ancient king or emperor decided that political humor was born out of ignorance. As a result, the ruler made some jester king-for-a-day to teach the weight of the office. A few even believe that the fickle weather this time of year “fools” us thinking that winter or spring is here.

No matter the origin, I agree with Mark Twain on the purpose of April Fools’ Day. “This is the day upon which we are reminded of what we are on the other three hundred and sixty-four.” In life, we are constantly given opportunities to look foolish, and we rarely avoid them. Being a fool for an outdated fashion sense is one thing, but being a fool for prejudice or pride is another. In the Scriptures, Paul gives us another reason to be the fool.

Do not deceive yourselves. If you think that you are wise in this age, you should become fools so that you may become wise. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, "He catches the wise in their craftiness," and again, "The Lord knows the thoughtsof the wise, that they are futile." (1 Corinthians 3:18-20)

The follower of Jesus Christ who holds to the truth, loves and forgives will look foolish to the rest of the world. Those thinking themselves to be wise act out of arrogance. Ironically, greater wisdom is found among those who know that they are fools. The poignant question remains for me: If I am a fool, for what reason am I foolish? For Christ or for the world?