major conflict of issues

[HelenaZF]

I like to study the song, find the mode of prayer, anoint the receiver of the word in dance and so on and they just go and dance.

I understand your desire to be properly prepared. In my ideal scenario, I would have the song list ahead of time, and also be there for the pre-service run-throughs. I find it helps me get in touch with the intended flow of the service, and often a germ of an interpretive idea will sprout and grow into something more "formed" in the time between the run-through and the actual doing of the song in the service. Also, knowing the"direction" of the song-list gives me the opportunity to see the whole shape of the praise set, and I can sometimes use that knowledge to "build" the pageantry/dance picture I can present. But I'm equally comfortable, and have more practice at this than I would like!--at just flowing with the song service without knowing what is coming. I believe God can anoint you powerfully in either circumstance.



There is nothing especially spiritual about never preparing, and there is nothing particularly virtuous about insisting on diligent preparation. Each method has it's place. Sometimes you must allow your training and experience to be your preparation, but always listening for the voice of the Spirit as you minister, lest you come to depend on your skill more than the guidance of the Spirit.



I'm all for colorful garments, too! There's much more that can be said with our dance garments than can be expressed with white peasant dresses and floral head circlets!