Toe Dancing

On pointe, dancing on your toes in ballet is a beautiful art form. As the mother of a ballerina, I have had many opportunities to witness the disciplined hard work involved to achieve what appears to be effortless. There are times that what is accomplished in this arena of dance is breathtaking and inspiring. This level of beauty demands countless hours spent in the studio with others who are all focused on the same goal of perfection. If one person in the company does not take responsibility for their dance the whole dance will suffer. It will be seen when performed. It can be dangerous as well.

In the studio of the church,I idealistically crave for the beauty observed in physical dance, but often experience a toe dancing of another kind. Toes are bloodied and bruised by others who have stepped on, tripped or even blocked my movement. Now, before we go into defensive mode hear me out. For this abuse of each other in our spiritual dancing causes great harm. Our lack of discipline, focus and hours of practice cause tremendous pain. What grieves me even more is the realization that though mindful of others firmly planted foot on mine, I have been oblivious to my own toe stomping! My intentions were not often to do this, my motives were not necessarily malicious, but I did it anyway. I have been saddened by my contribution to this type of ugly, traumatic dancing.

A consquence of dancing together as God intended is to forgive the pain that has been inflicted on each other due to bad dancing. God revealed this to me the other day. I was struck that I have become gun shy, fearful and yes; defensive due to very bloody feet! I realized that part of the reason they are so bloody is due to each of us trying to dance, but also at times to my contributing false steps. One of the truths God spoke in regards to this waltz was, "Father, forgive them for they know not what they do!"

Jesus on the cross, cries out forgiveness for all the crushing, stomping, and mashing of our feet on Him and each other. "For we know not what we do!" Mercy is required due to our ignorance, lack of faith, disobedience and good intentions gone awry. Justice has been served in full by my Lord's own body. He allowed the fullest extent of abuse on His own self to pay for our horrible dancing.

So as I work on my steps, I am reminded of my own inability to do this well without the grace of a kind Master and I am challenged to extend this mercy to others despite the pain incurred. I must focus on God's beautiful dancing that blesses me so I in turn may bless others in humility. As I continue to adjust my feet, which are often awkard and clumsy, I am needing others to be patient and gracious. God has let me observe my own dancing and I am truly a toddler in my movement.

In our earth's studio, my hope is that I will become more focused on my work, my steps and when there is an accident, extend willing forgiveness to a fellow dancer. My prayer is that each of us would desire and work hard to be a reflection of beauty demonstrated by the Lord of the Dance. But let's extend grace as we are taught together.