Paul uses the word hilarotes in Roms 12:8, which is usually translated as "cheerfully" or "cheerfulness", to refer to those who show mercy. The word really means hilarity - not the "superficial 'noisy merriment' or 'boisterous gaity'", but a gladness that "arises from a deep sense of well-being founded in trusting the Grace-Giver .." Marva Dawn questions why this lack of hilarity is so lacking even in Christian community. Her answer is that we are sucked in to the "culture of solo efforts". We live too independently, and we don't know what true support is really like in Christian communities. Superficiality is found in many fellowship groups. Roms 12 is the antidote. It shows us how to find deeper love in our relationship with each other.
Dawn, M. (1992). Truly The Community. Grand Rapids, Michigan: William B. Eerdmans.
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