Darkness to Light: Joy as Celebration

“Which one of you, having a hundred sheep and losing one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness and go after the one that is lost until he finds it? When he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders and rejoices. And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and neighbors, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost.’ Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance. ~ Luke 15:4-7
Walk as if you are kissing the earth with your feet. ~ Thich Nhat Hanh

 Let us dance in the sun, wearing wild flowers in our hair. ~ Susan Polis Schutz

Lutherans (as well as some other Protestant denominations) have an unflattering nickname that perhaps you've heard before.

 Frozen Chosen.

 You probably don't need a definition to know what it means. We tend to be accused of showing it most clearly in worship due to our often reserved manner of worship.

 And really, no judgment if you are reserved. There is a prejudice I think against those for whom worship is a solemn experience. There really is not a thing wrong with quiet, contemplative worship.

 I can't really imagine that God cares whether our dancing is inward or outward: how we rejoice.

 Just that we do rejoice.

 As the the service moves liturgically, sacraments are shared, and hymns are sung, are we captured by the fact that it is the Divine calling us to this place or worship?

 And if not, is there a place where we feel comfortable to sing God's praises with a song in our heart or celebration with our whole self?

 Is there a place where we can cheer for God as we might for our favorite football team?

 Don't miss out on the wonder. Dance with your heart or with your whole self. Celebrate this life that has been freely given by the One who rejoices in us.
Prayer: As prayer today, click on this link to listen to this song by Lee Ann Womack:  "I Hope You Dance"

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