the thought police

 I'm struck this week in the gospel narrative by the activities of the religious thought police. They're everywhere, squeezing into the back of the crowd to monitor, make note of, Jesus' activities, so threatening to the status quo. Not afraid to be seen, either- they question him at what seems like every opportunity; 'who are you? what right have you to do this? the law says otherwise!'

In truth, it's a role which most of us will have adopted at one time or another, although some have made it their life's work to make sure the rules/the prevailing culture/the law are adhered to, and preferably to the very last detail. In the end it's a joyless occupation, with bitterness and suspicion at its root. 

By contrast the impetus of the Spirit of God has about it a freedom, a joy, a life-affirming quality, I could do with it in bucket loads. There's a cynicism in the present culture, and God is far from front and centre. If only there were more instances of life-affirming joy in the endless dimensions of the kingdom! If only..... well, it could begin with me, although it would give the present-day religious thought-police reason to be active.....