Sunday, April 20, 2008

Footloose

Last evening marked the grand finale of a two week run of my son's high school musical production of "Footloose". It was met with standing ovation, thunderous applause and loud cheering (and that was just from his mother!). These young people once again gave 110% and provided days and nights of entertainment for school groups, family and friends.

Now, before some of you click off this blog forever in shock that my son participated in such a questionable storyline, please grant me a few more moments of your time.

My Grade 10 son played keyboard for the "Pit Band". His musical Director left each member of the band personal words of encouragement attached to their music stands on opening night. The following is the quote he left for my son: "The aim and final end of all music should be none other than the glory of God and the refreshment of the soul", Johann Sebastian Bach.

My son's testimony and witness have preceeded his involvement in this musical. His teachers and classmates recognize his stand for Christ. When my son has missed practices due to church activities, the Director's have been accommodating and understanding. When my son is present at rehearsals and practices he gives his all and his participation is valued. His music teacher has written that my son is a musician of renown and standing in their school theatre company.

The "Footloose" script was also altered and changed to respect the values represented in the wide range of audience age, faith and beliefs. Much thought was given to present a non-offensive play, yet still maintain the original storyline. This effort was taken in a Public High School - not the norm in this day and age.

I personally loved the overall theme. "There is a time to dance" Ecc. 3:4. That was my theme verse last year. Dance shows have really taken off recently. On television and on the big screen, it has been a year of quick step, waltz, tango and free-style. "Shall We Dance", "Step Up", "Dancing with the Stars", "So you think you can Dance" all attract many viewers. Even young, emerging Christian groups have added movement to their ministry. A few months ago I attended a concert with "Jump 5" and "pureNRG" and let me tell you - these young people have energy!! These kids can move!!!

Dancing to me represents living in freedom - complete abandonment to God. It means taking God's hand and walking out on the dance floor of life, ready to embrace all that He has prepared for me. Too often I sit on my chair, alone, watching other's 'dance', afraid to move.

Some would be quick to condemn my enjoyment and support of this activity, as well as the school production, but God is looking at my heart. Many who would outwardly boycott such a musical have no difficulty with gossip, slander, jealously, bitterness and the like. We must be true to God with our own personal convictions. I have never danced - but, my feet are tapping. My son gave me a DVD for Christmas entitled, "Beginner's Ballroom Dancing". The Lord of the dance wants to sweep me off my feet. He is asking, "May I have this dance for the rest of your life?" I don't want to respond with the lyrics, "Can't dance, don't ask me". The band is playing. I see Him walking towards me, with hand extended. Will I place my hand...my heart...in His.

Lacing up my dancing shoes.

9 comments:

Amy said...

Well said!
If I had been there I would have been on my feet clapping too!
God Bless,
Amy:)

Yolanda said...

AMEN, tie those dancing shoes and allow your feet to spin, glide, and literally beat to the music God has for YOU!!!

Love ya,
Yolanda

Catherine said...

I'm sure your man did a great job! What a wonderful testimony his life is - just like his mom!

Kelley said...

Hey Joy,
Congratulations to your son!! I bet you were filled with all kinds of emotions as you watched him participate in such a big production.

I love what you said about dancing. I have been learning a lot lately on the subject of not judging others and I find it amazing that people today would condemn others for choosing to dance (although I know they do). Our church has a dance ministry and often there is ballet or artistic dance along with a worship song. And remember how David danced for the Lord! I agree with you that dancing represents living in freedom and complete abandonment to God... I think God is pleased with that!!

Have a great and relaxing day, I hope all is well (and getting warmer) where you are!

Love,
Kelley

elaine @ peace for the journey said...

Dance away, friend! Dance in freedom. It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. What a beautiful tribute to the grace and life afforded to us through the power of the cross.

peace~elaine

Shari said...

About dancing - I have a hard time standing or sitting still when there is a good song playing. Usually, I sit in the back of church, so I can dance a bit during the singing time, without worrying about others looking. Our church is fine with dancing and the worship leader even encourages it. But there are many others who think that it's weird. I have 4 girls that love singing and dancing for the Lord. It is so wonderful to see them worship Him.

Pamela (His maidservant) said...

Beautifully said! David danced for His Lord! We should all dance more!
Blessings!
In His Graces~Pamela

Lelia Chealey said...

Dancing to me represents living in freedom - complete abandonment to God. It means taking God's hand and walking out on the dance floor of life, ready to embrace all that He has prepared for me. Too often I sit on my chair, alone, watching other's 'dance', afraid to move.

What an awesome statement! If you don't mind I'm going to put this quote on my sidebar under Quotes of the Week from a Fellow Blogger. :)
Sounds like your son is an outstanding young man full of Jesus' character.
Loved what you shared on my blog on the Yes to God study. I am loving Lysa's book & learning so much from you all! Thanks for sharing this post Joy!
Blessings,
Lelia

Bonita said...

You must have one talented son! Hats off to him!

What a wonderful thing that Band Director did to encourage the musicians. Hats off to him as well!

And to see a public school going to such measures to keep things on the level. Hats off to them too!

I love the way you equated freedom with dancing. That is so very true. I love to dance. I'm not very good at it, but I do it anyway and it's one of the few times that I just really don't care what others think! Hats off to you for dancing with Jesus!