prompt (noun): an act of assisting or encouraging a hesitating speaker.

If there is a gospel parable that makes me hesitate to preach, this Sunday’s is certainly one of them. That’s a reason for the definition. Another is a reminder. Besides some adorable alliteration, I grabbed hold of that word when creating Preaching Prompts for a reason. We preachers, like all people, have a rich variety of wisdom within us. I believe in prompts that encourage us to dig deep, find it, give thanks and share. We model something that is needed in our world when we do that.

Less is more when it comes to preaching, right? Focus on one lesson. Choose one point. Lift up one personal narrative or shared experience.

A prompt is brief, conscise. It is an act that opens a door, sparks a thought, lights a spark.

So, for this Sunday here is my prompt: give forward. Too often when we think of forgiveness and our responsibility to do so, like Peter, we think about the past. A past we regret, want to change, did not live up to our expectations, etc. Too often when we contemplate forgiving we look behind us and not in front. We dwell on what was, instead of choosing to see our agency in turning our gaze. To wildly imagine what could be if we had the courage to let go. Let go of our sense of entitlement, or obligation, or resentment. And, sometimes, hurt and pain. Jesus had to let go of all of that too.

Forgiveness is hopeful participation in the future one cannot yet see (Heb 11:1). Whatever prompts us to forgive for the seventieth time helps us make known our trust in creating a new reality. Forgiveness moves us forward. In our own lives. In the life of our communities.

Less is more. I’m letting go of that parable, it’s just too dark for me to delve into right now. If you need more relevant prompting for this week, I’ll gladly point you towards an interview with Cornel West on the difference between hope and optimism in our time and place. (Actually, just listen to it, it’s so good!)

Preaching is giving forward, my friend. It’s a courageous and hopeful act prompted by love. It’s trusting the God who prompts us to speak is equipping us with the words that partner with people to bring forward God’s dream of reconcilation and restoration, here and now.