Sermons

A recent attempt to put together an e-fit picture of God reveals how such things are doomed to failure, and ignores the fact that we have been adjured not to do that. But there’s a more important reason why we should not create images of God…

Our concept of kingdoms has to be set to one side when we try to discover what the Kingdom of God is like.

The doctrine of the Trinity is often seen as a major challenge to our understanding, yet it is not our minds, so much as reflection on our experience, which will enlighten us about it.

Today is not Palm Sunday, so why is this Gospel being read on the “wrong” day? John’s approach to the narrating of Jesus’ life story is different, and he wants us to see the shadow of the cross looming over all of his ministry. The cleansing of erroneous elements from the Temple has relevance for us as we consider our own lives and faith this Lent.

The Transfiguration of Jesus stands between the manifestation of his glory at Epiphany, and the very different revelation of his glory on the cross. As such, it has an importance which is often overlooked, which os to our loss.

The wedding at Cana, the first of the”Signs” in John’s Gospel, not only begins the process of revealing Jesus’ true identity, but through the portrayal of Mary’s relationship with her Son, guides us in our prayer life and walk with God.

Jesus’ choice of disciples shows that none of us are insignificant or of no use in God’s eyes.

The Holy Family in their own human-ness can be a source of encouragement for us, particularly if we pay attention to Joseph and the hints we see of his own faithfulness in the midst of challenging situations.

Presents are not always what they seem, and their “wrapping” may disguise their contents.

After a year in which the news produced escalating revelations of the appalling behaviour of some, and the perplexing choices made by others, what does the birth of a baby 2,000 years ago have to say to all this?