Given by Rev. Madison Shockley July 11, 2021
Today our theme is dancing. Dance is the highest form of engagement. It involves your whole being, mind, heart, and body. King David heard of the blessings given by the Ark of the Covenant on the house of Obed-Edom. King David brought the Ark to the City of David with great rejoicing and dancing. He wanted that blessing too. Michal, daughter of Saul, saw David and berated him for dancing half-naked in front of everyone. David said he was dancing for the Lord and was not ashamed. David overdid the rituals so God would know he had the right to be the keeper of the Ark. The act of bringing the Ark to the city consolidated his power, politically and spiritually. The Lectionary skips over the story of Uzzah. He touched the Ark and was struck dead. He did not have permission to touch the Ark from God. History is told by the winners. This is still true today. The winners’ stories show they deserved their victories. Losers are now telling their stories. These truths can tarnish the winners’ halos. History is being reevaluated. Descendants of indigenous people and slaves are speaking out. Some are upset about these truths causing discomfort and guilt for white students. What about the black and indigenous students’ feelings!? We have a responsibility to teach the truth. The truth shall set you free.
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