Podcast Summary: followHIM Favorites • 24

Release Date: June 5, 2025
Hosts: Hank Smith & John Bytheway
Episode Title: followHIM Favorites • 24

Introduction

In episode 24 of the followHIM Favorites series, hosts Hank Smith and John Bytheway delve into the significance of humor within religious teaching and personal interactions. Anchored by discussions from Doctrine Covenants sections 60 through 63, particularly focusing on Doctrine Covenants 61:36, the episode emphasizes the Lord’s desire for His followers to maintain joy and a sense of humor, especially in teaching contexts.

Key Topics Discussed

1. The Commandment to "Be of Good Cheer"

• Doctrine Covenants 61:36: John highlights the importance of the verse, stating, “Be of good cheer.” (00:15)

  “Verily I say unto you, and what I say unto one, I say unto all, be of good cheer.” – Doctrine Covenants 61:36

• Elder Holland’s Perspective: Hank references a quote from Elder Holland, reinforcing the imperative to honor the Savior’s declaration to be joyful.

  “We should honor the Savior's declaration to be of good cheer. Indeed, it seems to me we may be more guilty of breaking that commandment than almost any other.” (03:18)

2. The Role of Humor in Teaching

• Teaching with Joy: John recounts insights from President Packer’s teachings on the vital role of humor for effective gospel teaching. He shares a personal anecdote illustrating the power of humor in the classroom.

  “The Gospel is a happy and a pleasant gospel. ... a good teacher will develop a sense of humor.” – John Bytheway (00:38)

• Personal Anecdote: John describes an incident from his physiology class where a professor’s attempt at humor backfired, resulting in strained relationships and a poor academic outcome.

  “What do you think he's going to do, Hank? ... the class roared with delight. The professor was not amused. We did not thereafter appreciate one another.” (01:15)

3. Differentiating Between Light-Mindedness and Light-Heartedness

• Truman Madsen’s Insight: John emphasizes the distinction made by Brother Truman Madsen between being "light-minded" and "light-hearted."

  “Good light-mindedness is making fun of sacred things, which we just don't do. Light-heartedness, we do that all the time.” (03:27)

• Maintaining Respect: The hosts agree that while humor is essential, it must be employed respectfully, especially regarding sacred subjects.

4. Practical Illustrations of Humor in the Classroom

• President Packer’s Experience: John shares President Packer’s approach to incorporating humor, illustrating that even leaders may face challenges when attempting to lighten the mood.

  “...that was the state president. ... Elder Packer did not laugh one bit.” (02:17)

• President Hinckley’s Analogy: Hank conveys President Hinckley’s comparison of a good sense of humor to a car's shocks, which helps smooth out the bumps of life.

  “A good sense of humor is like the shocks of a car. Keeps things from being a little too bumpy. Makes a smoother ride.” (03:44)

Insights and Conclusions

The episode underscores the essential balance between maintaining solemnity in sacred contexts and embracing humor to foster a more engaging and relatable environment. Hank and John advocate for developing a sense of humor that aligns with gospel principles, ensuring that joy and levity enhance rather than detract from spiritual teachings.

Notable Takeaways:

• Humor Enhances Teaching: A well-placed sense of humor can make lessons more enjoyable and memorable, as long as it remains respectful and appropriate.

• Joy as a Commandment: Embracing joy and cheerfulness is not only beneficial but also a divine commandment that followers are encouraged to uphold.

• Respectful Application: While humor is valuable, it must be applied thoughtfully, avoiding any trivialization of sacred topics.

Conclusion

In followHIM Favorites • 24, Hank Smith and John Bytheway effectively highlight the profound impact that humor can have in religious education and personal interactions. By intertwining scriptural mandates with personal stories and expert insights, the hosts provide a compelling argument for cultivating a joyous and light-hearted approach to teaching and living one's faith.

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