Faith, Inspiration and Action

I’m reading Eric Idle’s autobiography. He writes about his childhood… church… boarding school… Cambridge University… comedy… writing… acting… Monty Python… Life of Brian…

‘Life of Brian’ is a satirical film about Brian Cohen, who’s born on the same day as, and next door to, Jesus. Brian’s subsequently mistaken for the Messiah… The film caused controversy; many thought it was blasphemous.

However, Idle writes about Jesus with knowledge, understanding and respect. He finds Jesus’ preaching and teaching inspirational; what he mocks is the imperfections of Jesus’ followers.

Idle’s studied astronomy and cosmology. ‘This opened my mind to the central question of the universe: What is life?’

Idle stands outside faith, challenges, and asks questions.

Yesterday our local news reported on Justice Hall. When Justice was six or seven the former British tennis number one Elena Baltacha visited St Matthew’s Primary School in Ipswich where Justice was a pupil.

Elena introduced Justice to tennis and saw her talent. With help and support Justice has achieved success; now 20 she’s represented Great Britain in the sport.

Justice herself has become involved with the Elena Baltacha Foundation that gives children from all backgrounds the opportunity to learn tennis. Yesterday she returned to St Matthew’s with the Foundation, introducing children to tennis and inspiring the next generation.

Justice love of tennis leads to inspiration and action.

Yesterday we received a letter from Smile International, a small Christian charity that we’ve supported for many years. Working in India, Uganda and Zimbabwe, ‘We aim to turn tears into smiles through our Feeding, Educating, Empowering and Developing programmes.’

Yesterday’s letter states: ‘…our commitment to those who are left helpless and alone has remained steadfast. Our passion and desire to keep turning tears into smiles has meant that we are the only dependable, constant source of support in so many people’s lives.’

It quotes St Paul: ‘Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.’ For ‘Smile’ that’s made possible by faith that leads to inspiration and action.