Don't be afraid be productive

Alleluia Christ is Risen
He is risen indeed Alleluia!

Easter Sunday finds me preaching to a packed church of 150 about Jesus' words 'don't be afraid.' It's what the angels said to the disciples on the first Easter Day. So I said to the good people of Mytholmroyd: 'Don't be afraid.'
It's funny because people always think religious people are motivated by fear... We're not. I don't know anyone who even thinks twice about their actions will lead to a time in a warmer place. Rather they find their religion sets them free from fear so that they can make the world a better place.
It strikes me that fear is no great motivator. Polly my friend at the Alternative Technology Centre reckons that no-one live more greenly to save the planet but they might do it to save a few pounds or for the buzz you get from doing good.
So don't be afraid be free, and with your freedom make the world a better place.

Are we nearly there yet?

We start celebrating Easter in Mytholmroyd a day earlier, we just can't wait to have a party. So here we are on Easter Saturday with a church full of flowers and people and cakes and buns and tea! It reminds me of when I first came to Mytholmroyd and they told me that they didn't do Lent, or Holy week but they did do Easter. It felt today like we just can't wait to get on with it.
That impatience is one of the great drivers in the world, it fuels those who want justice, it fuels those who want to build and grow a new world. Unfortunately it also rocket fuel for those who destroy.
The key is to focus our frustration into doing something good. jesus said: "Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled."
I can't wait for Easter, but I will and while I do I'll try and do something useful with my frustration!