Just Dance.

I just got in after being out dancing with my husband at our old stomping grounds (quite literally).  We saw a lot of our friends who used to dance in the same place and had so much fun.  We did get a bit of a workout along with some catching up with folks.

Earlier today, I had wanted to go out dancing...but I wasn't sure I could work myself up to it.  It's been a week of sleep deprivation and stress.  But, as often happens, once I get out and dance, I feel a bit energized - the worries of the week just fade away and I can live in the moment, moving, laughing, stretching - feeling alive again.  If I had not made the effort to go, I would have missed so much. 

Jeremiah 31:10-13

 ¹⁰ "Hear the word of the LORD, O nations; 
       proclaim it in distant coastlands: 
       'He who scattered Israel will gather them 
       and will watch over his flock like a shepherd.'

 ¹¹ For the LORD will ransom Jacob 
       and redeem them from the hand of those stronger than they.

 ¹² They will come and shout for joy on the heights of Zion; 
       they will rejoice in the bounty of the LORD—
       the grain, the new wine and the oil, 
       the young of the flocks and herds. 
       They will be like a well-watered garden, 
       and they will sorrow no more.

 ¹³ Then maidens will dance and be glad, 
       young men and old as well. 
       I will turn their mourning into gladness; 
       I will give them comfort and joy instead of sorrow.

This text was turned into a Canticle in the Lutheran Book of Worship; we used to sing it for Morning Prayer services in chapel at seminary.  I remember the re-phrasing of the words: "Listen! You nations of the world, listen to the word of the Lord.  Announce it from coast to coast, declare it to distant islands...young women will dance for joy, and men young and old will make merry..."

I can hear the timbre of these words sounding as a loud messenger shouting out: "hey you, listen up - I've got good news for you; and it's so good you'll want to dance and be glad - everyone will be celebrating."

Life can make us tired.  It can rob us of the joy God intends for us to have.  There are times in life, even moments in a week, when we are called to take a break from the chaos, hear the good news - and just dance.

Today, I am thankful for community, celebration and the Lord of the Dance.