What works and doesn't work in our context?
We are a relatively small congregation in northern Manitoba. Because of the rural and northern nature of community, Jesus' parables are very easy to talk from. People like simple, straightforward messages and especially ones that evoke an emotional response. It does not work to go into deep theological explanations of the meanings of Paul's writings, for example. They much prefer to follow his missionary journeys which make it easier to understand why Paul spoke differently to the Corinthians than he did to the Ephesians. Then we can go into more detail.
What is expected?
I have to be relevant, taking into consideration that the congregation members know each other and are aware of each other's opinions. A couple of Sundays ago when I was talking about Indigenous issues on Indigenous Peoples Sunday, I knew exactly whom in the congregation would not agree that we had to admit that we had committed injustices to these people. They feel 'the past is the past; get over it' because their ancestors had to leave their countries because of oppression and maybe never saw their loved ones again. As Rita MacNeil sang, 'don't take it for granted, say grandfather's immigrant eyes!' Talking about white privilege is even trickier and yet these issues must be talked about in terms of what would Jesus do?
It is expected that I do not talk about anything that causes guilt or places blame so I really have to think about how I will talk about such issues - and it is no different when I have to read the passages that talk about divorce, and the role of women. It is expected that I will provide a complete picture and that I will speak in a loving and sensitive way.
What is preferred in my context?
Talking about 'nice' topics. I was once told that 'I came here to find salvation, not to be challenged!' Unfortunately Christianity does not work that way. Jesus was a very challenging teacher, so again I have to be respectful. I use examples from the situations that face us today and do my best to relate them to first century Israel. Politics are politics; oppression is oppression. it is amazing how by just knowing the group before me helps the language I use because they are all hardworking, caring Christians - but we each express that in different ways.