This book addresses the fact that Americans tend to live under a considerable amount of stress, tension, and anxiety, and suggests that humor can be helpful in alleviating their distress. It posits that humor is a useful placebo in this regard; cites studies that show that humor moderates life stress; considers the relationship of religion and humor, especially as means to alleviate anxiety; proposes that Jesus had a sense of humor; suggests that his parable of the Laborers in the Vineyard has humorous implications for the relief of occupational stress; explores the relationship of gossip and humor; and suggests that Jesus and his disciples were a joking community. It concludes that Jesus viewed the kingdom of God as a worry-free existence.""In a world of serious problems and stressed-out people, psychology of religion scholar Donald Capps explores the idea and use of humor and William James' notion of the Gospel of Relaxation in light of scripture and the ministry of Jesus. We are wonderfully introduced to Jesus and his disciples as a joking community. This book is a fitting coda to Don Capps' prolific life. He offers us not only last laughs, but the gift and grace of humor.""--Ryan LaMothe, Professor of Pastoral Care and Counseling, Saint Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology""This is Donald Capps' last book, and it is among his best. His third monograph on humor, Humor Us, engages empirical, theoretical, medical, historical, biblical, ...