Writing from the Rectory – October 2025

Listening to a podcast by Professor Brian Cox I was reminded to be excited when we get something wrong. I have encountered this peculiar source of joy from ancient Hebrew scholars, but its impact still struck me as counterintuitive and powerful. You see, to the curious, to get something wrong marks an opportunity to learn something new, and to learn something new is to expand our understanding of our world and its inhabitants.

To understand more of life on earth can lead us to appreciate and value diversity which in turn aids peace and lessens conflict.

I shall never forget meeting a physiotherapist who specialises in disability. She showed how a simple task like getting up from sitting on the floor to a standing position takes a precise set of movements that most of us take for granted. However, for some it must be taught. As we chatted, she explained that each of us receives stimulation to our senses in a unique way on a spectrum. This finally made sense of why we see such a variety of preference; the way I taste marmite is unique, as is how I hear Mozart or view a 1950s roadster. It confirms the old question as to whether I see a shade of green like you see a shade of green - not so, it seems.

Jesus prioritises the marginalised, those who struggle to access the benefits of society such as healthcare, employment, friendships and worship of God. Thankfully, it is slowly being recognised that a diverse set of responses should be welcomed since it enhances creativity and experience. Employers sometimes seek out the neurodiverse for their ability to focus long periods of time on very detailed tasks.

Someone might not add intellectual value but rather they could for example be a much-underrated non-anxious presence.  What price can we put on the  joy which I’ve found consistently among the special needs community. After all, God’s desire is that his people be joyful. God’s motivation for creating us was driven by love and joy.  I hope that by valuing others who are not like us we can play our part in expanding love and joy. Perhaps even you are called to be a non-anxious presence?

Jesus spoke in parables to set us a mystery to solve. By discovering their meaning we will indeed find that being wrong is an exciting opportunity to learn deeper truths and insights, whether we’re an astrophysicist, ancient Hebrew scholar or have a more typical role to play, all are equally loved and valued by God.

Blessings
Reverend Andrew Doarks