Some months ago I had 'a good idea' and submitted it to a large community based web development project. Used their stuff, but never contributed and thought this is something I could put back.

Initial feedback agreed it would be something useful. Rather than leave the idea in the pile of proposals I decided I might as well make the changes myself and submit them for including in the core - easily done!

With my life being turned upside down I did not check what had happened. The other day looked and found my changes had got stuck. Minor, cosmetic issue, but I had broken the rules.

Sorted that out this morning and then turned to the scripture reading plan I am attempting to follow this year (er, will overrun into next year a bit) and part of it included Psalms 119:33-40.

I was struck by the parallelism with involvement in such a community project.

Ps 119:33 Point out your rules to me ... I won't disobey ...
Ps 119:34 Help me understand ...
Ps 119:36 Make me want to obey ... rather than take shortcut to fame
Ps 119:37 Take away my foolish ideas ... I want to live in reality
Ps 119:39 Knowledge of God's character and knowing that "He is for me, not against me" gives me confidence and protects me from those who insult / ridicule me (e.g. the gossiping and backbiting often seen in 'community' projects, including church groups).