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Parables produce twisted sermons


Dr. Alyce McKenzie describes the "mysterious interval" in parables that invites active thought. (photo by Jeff Horlacher)

Written: 6/15/2006

By Susan R. Cooper
Marketing and Communications assistant
On the surface, parables are basically metaphor and simile. In her Annual Conference workshop, �Strange, Twisted Sermons: Preaching the Parables,� Rev. Dr. Alyce McKenzie, assistant professor of homiletics at Perkins School of Theology, noted that Jesus� parables were about everyday life and ordinary people, of homey things. They were narrative art imitating life.

But there�s a twist, something funny going on.

She said that twist is �an interval where it�s strange.�

As one of her examples of the �mysterious interval,� McKenzie told the parable about the woman who misplaces a coin. She noted that there was a big search, and when the coin is found, the woman throws a big celebration. But if the woman was so desperate to find the coin, how could she afford to pay for the party?
McKenzie said that�s an opportunity to examine truth. That strangeness teases us to think about stuff; it teases our minds into active thought.

For another example, McKenzie talked about the merchant in search of fine pearls who found one pearl of great value and sold all he had to buy that pearl.

�Why would you give up everything you own just to have a pearl?� she asked.

McKenzie then mimicked a little song and dance of �Me and My Pearl� to the tune of �Me and My Shadow.�
She said this question invites people to examine why the pearl was so important. McKenzie suggested that the pearl is wisdom, therefore more valuable than possessions in the long run.
Jesus� parables are not so much about information as they are an invitation. They�re a vision of a new reality.

However, she noted that �not everyone wants their mind teased into active thought. Parables can be annoying and offensive.�

McKenzie said that entry points for preaching parables or any text are �whatever we dislike in it, what makes us uncomfortable, disturbs us, rubs up again something in life.�

To preach parables, McKenzie recommends:

  • Let the loose ends remain loose. Don�t tie them all up. Jesus doesn�t want us to have everything tied down just so.
  • Speak from concrete examples to the concrete experiences of the listeners. Use the parable to illuminate situations in the congregation�s life. Al- ways include yourself in the conviction of the parable
  • Make reference to sensory details. Use more scene, less summary. Let people discover for themselves how to feel as the events of the parable unfold; don�t just tell them how to feel. Leave room for the listeners to participate. Invite them into that strange interval in the parable.

She pointed out that parables illustrate that the kingdom of God is not under our control. God�s kingdom shows up when and where it�s least expected. It can be disruptive. But it leads to justice and joy.