Alison and the whale

Journey to Jerusalem: A roadmap

The transfiguration provides a roadmap for the Lenten journey to Jerusalem. 
A reflection on Luke 9:28b-36 (37-45) given to Sanctuary, 3 March 2019 © Alison Sampson, 2019.

Context, culture and corporate identity: Understanding the sermon on the plain

The Zen Master Shichiri Kojun sat reciting sutras when all of a sudden a thief burst in, brandishing a sharp sword. He demanded his money or his life. “Do not disturb me,” said Shichiri. “You will find the money in that drawer over there.” Then he continued with his sutras ...
A reflection on Luke 6:27-38 given to Sanctuary, 24 February 2019 © Alison Sampson, 2019.

Comfortably distant from God

When do we encounter God's healing presence? 
A reflection on Luke 6:17-26 given to Sanctuary, 17 February 2019 © Alison Sampson, 2019.

Going deeper at work with Jesus

Close your eyes, and consider your workplace ...
A guided meditation drawing on the themes of Luke 5:1-11 offered to Sanctuary, 10 February 2019 © Alison Sampson, 2019.

Seeing through God's Eyes Takes Practice

It takes regular practice to learn to see through God's eyes: but what does that practice include?
A reflection on  Luke 2:21-40 given to Sanctuary, 3 February 2019 © Alison Sampson, 2019.

The Way of Jesus Christ

What is the way of Jesus Christ? including an introduction to canonical criticism.
A reflection on Luke 4:14-22 given to Sanctuary, 27 January 2019 (C13)

Let's Make a Splash!

Exploring the depths of baptism. A reflection on Luke 3:15-22 given to Sanctuary, 13 January 2019 (C11)

For Christmas hope and healing, look to the shadows

All around the world, people are preparing. The fridges are filled; the tables are set; the gifts are wrapped and waiting under the tree. The tinsel shimmers and Sinatra sings, as the world prepares for Christmas. It’s a wonderful time, a joyful time; we should all be so excited. So why, for so many of us, does it feel so hard?
A reflection on Luke 2:1-20 given to Sanctuary, 23 December 2018 (our early Christmas service) © Alison Sampson, 2018. 

Winnowing out only violence: Shifting from John to Jesus

John envisions a judgemental saviour; but Jesus shows a different way.
A reflection on Luke 3:7-18a given to Sanctuary, 16 December 2018 (Year C Advent 3, C03) © Alison Sampson, 2018. Image credit: Paz Arando on Unsplash

Rethinking Forgiveness

A reflection on sin, repentance, forgiveness, and clearing the path for peace.
A reflection on Luke 3:1-8a given to Sanctuary, 9 December 2018 (Year C Advent 2, C02) © Alison Sampson, 2018. Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash.