Did you know Jesus' friends didn't wash their hands when eating?

Sounds a bit gross to me. Clearly cleanliness is not next to godliness. But don't tell my children.

This is not a non sequitur... but do you give anything up in Lent?

Easter is coming, and maybe you observe an atheist/agnostic's Lent: giving something up in the interests of moderation and self-control. TV, social media, streaming services? Cooking? Rich foods?

Some people might even come to church for the second time in a year on Easter weekend - and you'd be welcome, by the way.

Tuesday you might even have pancakes. You may even hear the word 'shrove' used. It's like solvol for your soul - washes off the guilt.

In another context, I've watched people bathe themselves in the giardia-ridden Ganges - though this probably does the opposite of giving extra life.

But don't be fooled. Jesus was on to something. Cleanliness is not next to godliness.

Habits, ceremonies, they might give some control, but the heart of the problem's the same.

The dirt's on the inside, and thankfully Easter is not a self-help program.

St Paul's Anglican Church meets on Sundays at 9am with kids church. All welcome.