July 5

Seinfeld, often hailed as "a show about nothing," premiered its pilot on July 5, 1989, and went on to become one of the most iconic sitcoms in television history. Created by Larry David and Jerry Seinfeld, the series ran for nine seasons, totaling 180 episodes, and concluded in 1998. Set in New York City, the show followed the absurdities of everyday life through the lens of stand-up comedian Jerry Seinfeld and his eccentric circle of friends—George Costanza, Elaine Benes, and Cosmo Kramer. With its clever observational humor, unique character quirks, and bold refusal to wrap episodes in neat moral bows, Seinfeld became a cultural juggernaut, dominating ratings and influencing comedy for decades.

The show drew subtle inspiration from earlier character-driven sitcoms like The Odd Couple and Taxi, but it truly broke new ground with its self-aware, minimalist storytelling and anti-sentimentality. Its influence can be seen in later series such as Curb Your Enthusiasm (also created by Larry David), It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, Arrested Development, and The Office. From "yada yada yada" to "no soup for you," Seinfeld left a lexicon of catchphrases in its wake, and even now, reruns and streaming platforms keep it alive for new generations. It remains a masterclass in comedy that found humor in the mundane—and somehow made nothing into something legendary.

A Prayer for More Comedy and Less Drama

Lord of joy and laughter,

We thank You for the healing power of humor—

for belly laughs, shared smiles, and the kind of comedy

that reminds us we’re all just trying to figure it out.

We miss the lightness, Lord.

We miss the half-hour escapes that once filled our evenings—

the sitcoms that didn’t take themselves too seriously

and helped us do the same.

Where once there were four comedies a night,

now our screens are filled with crime scenes, courtroom tension,

and yet another dramatic twist.

Bring back the joy.

Bring back the funny neighbors, the quirky friends,

the awkward pauses that end in grace.

Raise up new storytellers with the courage to be light—

not because the world isn’t heavy,

but because it always needs a little lift.

Help us laugh more often,

love more freely,

and remember that sometimes

the most spiritual thing we can do

is just sit with people

and laugh until we cry.

Amen.

Reflection Questions

When was the last time you laughed so hard you forgot your worries?

Are you giving yourself permission to enjoy life’s lighter side?