A few months ago the Shire Council did some resealing work along our street. The newly applied asphalt covered the line markings, so a few weeks later, the contractors came along and applied the appropriate lines.

This was all very well, except the line markers made a mistake. They extended a double line by a few metres to make it join up with a traffic island.

The gap in the lines had been there ever since we moved into the house 25 years ago. It provided a handy place to do a U-turn to get to our driveway. You might be thinking, “They could just drive a bit further”, and you would be right. Except that it is actually more dangerous to do a U-turn where the lines end.

Transport NSW told us that the gap should be there, as the correct line markings are in the NSW Government Gazette and have the force of the law.

So, as I understand it, the double lines are actually there illegally. If I get caught crossing these illegal lines would I be fined?

Many religions and philosophies are based on rules. Do this and God will be happy; do that and God will be unhappy with you. The trouble with laws (apart form the fact that they can become self-contradictory) is that they tell you what to do, make no attempt to help you, and then condemn you when you fail.

In contrast, Jesus comes to us with grace and love. Love motivates us to do the right thing because we want to, it empowers us to life right, and it forgives us when we fall.

The invitation of Jesus is this: “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30).

If you are frustrated by trying to be good, connect yourself to Jesus who brings love not law.