Estonian Folk Dance

You have turned for me my mourning into dancing; you have loosed my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness, that my glory may sing your praise and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give thanks to you forever! (Psalm 30:11-12 ESV).

One more little aside from our foray into the Embassy Open House when we visited Washington DC last week is a must. We visited the Estonian Embassy, as well as the Italian, French, and German. At the Estonian Embassy there were four dancers performing the traditional folk dance of their country. As you can see from the picture I took from the second floor window overlooking the sidewalk where they performed, it is a lively form of dance. The history of this dance is very interesting. Old Estonians thought that dancing had a powerful and magical influence on the surrounding world. Dance was an inseparable component of parties and festivities because it was customary to celebrate holidays. People expressed their joy by dancing. On solemn days dancing and having fun were unacceptable. Again, I began to think a bit about the view of many Christians concerning dance. The word "dancing" has a rather broad meaning, which may include such simple activity as the expression of feelings of joy and enthusiasm, or the more involved routing and movement of one skilled in interpreting and arousing powerful emotions. Numerous Old Testament instances of dancing being approved can be cited; however, a study of these accounts will reveal that each involved an expression of rejoicing or religious enthusiasm because of some victory or accomplishment. Such is the situation as Miriam led the women "with timbrels and dances" (cf. Exodus 15:20), after the deliverance from Egyptian bondage, or Jepthah's daughter greeting him with "timbrels and dances" after a great victory (cf. Judges 11:34). David's thanksgiving for the safe return of the ark of God was evidenced as he "danced before Jehovah with all his might" (cf. 2 Samuel 6:14). Similar use of the term "dancing" is made by the Psalmist to express joy and praise unto Jehovah God as is evident in our reading today. I think dancing has become the center of controversy simply as a means from keeping us from emotional expression in worship. I would not advocate “dancing in the aisles”; however, I would certainly remind us all that the great gift of God’s deliverance ought to evoke an incredible emotional response of joy and satisfaction. We have far too many gloomy believers in many of our churches today. Remember that our Gospel message is one of Good News! Approach worship with an attitude of great joy, rather than obligation!