I’m writing this whilst watching the Big Painting Challenge. Partly because I like to think I know the Reverend Richard Coles (I’ve spoken to him twice) and partly because who knows, one day, in retirement I might take to watercolours. Despite failing Art O Level, dismally.

By the time you read this of course the series will be almost over. Tonight, however, I’m watching someone not painting what she been asked to paint. And I’m back at school. As a teacher. With the creative ones. When all you want is a picture of sunflowers for a display for parents evening and they … don’t. I can’t bear it.

I wonder if it’s like that for God sometimes. We are given a simple(!) template of love God, love your neighbor, but instead of working that out we go off on our own thing. Which brings me neatly (I get to the point eventually!) to Lent. The time of year when, as Christians we aim to focus on what God wants rather than on our dreams and desires.

Lent is a time to get in step with God. For re-focussing, away from self, to God and others. Read a book, give up Pointless for Evening Prayer on Thursdays at 5.30pm in church. How about trying random acts of kindness? Give your trolley to someone without getting your pound back… take a neighbour a bunch of daffs … that kind of thing.

At the moment the contestants (we’re back with the painting challenge. Keep up.) are trying to paint Van Gogh’s bedroom at Arles. With varying degrees of success. Love God, love your neighbour might seem actually to be a tall order but that doesn’t mean we can’t have a go!

And, if you are doing random acts of kindness, please – no chocolate. It’s Lent.

The Revd Janet Tebby
01664 474096

janet@oakhamteam.org.uk

@TebbyJanet