Praying outside the box: part 2b

Advent 2024

I have a conflict of interest here. I am a musician, but I am not a dancer. Even before I was disabled, my dancing was notorious for stiffness. My lack of grace on the dancefloor is not a problem here. This blog post is for those with little musical or dance talent, or at least undeveloped talent.

The picture above shows what worshipping together in music and dance could be like. Or at least a computer’s view of such, though I do not think AI is able to have a relationship with God yet, or even with people.

How do you play music and/or dance to God when alone? Is it gentle and non-rhythmic, full of fun or something else? God is not against fun, there’s nothing wrong with having fun whether together or alone in God’s presence. As a player, I have used metal, goth, or punk rhythms to express my frustrations with the world about things I have seen to God. Not using words, just the aggression of the music.

It’s not all aggression; there are quiet moments and fun, too. All of these can be brought to God. Words are good; I pray using words most of the time, but when it comes to expressing emotion, I find music is far better. Humming or whistling can be used for those who do not play an instrument.

Now, dancing. I have to go on hearsay here. I have never been good at dancing, although I find it a big compliment when people dance to my music. But dancing for God is one of those dancing like no one (except God) is watching times. You can bypass the logical part of your brain and go straight to expressing your emotions. I believe that God is just as concerned about how you are feeling as you are about what you are thinking.