Uninvited Guests

Dance ministries should not behave like talent agencies. For those who host conferences and major ministry events, it can be irritating to receive unsolicited requests from other ministries to allow them to dance during the program or teach during workshop sessions. Often, dancers who are scouting for "gigs" have not registered for the conference or are simply looking for a platform to claim. Our decisions to attend conferences and events should not be based on our opportunity to minister. If we are found faithful in what the Lord has assigned to us, the doors will open with very little effort.

Motivation matters. It is good practice to make ourselves available through internet resources, networks, or be referred by others who are familiar with our work. It may not be so wise to overtly include "book me for your event" on our ministry websites. If we teach or dance, it is fine that people know that. When we start producing "infomercials," we turn into salespeople. If we push open the door of opportunity for ourselves, we will have to work just as hard to keep it that way. When the Lord opens a door, no man can shut it.

It is a powerful testimony when we can share with people how the Lord is faithful to reward those who diligently seek Him. It is outright embarrassing to be declined from ministering (sometimes for years) with others because we were over-zealous. If the invitations seem to be few and far between, be patient. Let us commit ourselves to prayer, serve the Lord and each other, and sharpen our skills in movement and the Word. It is important to be found doing His will, and not our own.

Proverbs 18:16 (NKJV)
A man’s gift makes room for him, and brings him before great men.

Luke 14:10 (NKJV)
But when you are invited, go and sit down in the lowest place, so that when he who invited you comes he may say to you, ‘Friend, go up higher.’ Then you will have glory in the presence of those who sit at the table with you.

2 Peter 1:10-11 (NKJV)
Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stumble; for so an entrance will be supplied to you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Revelation 3:8 (NKJV)
“I know your works. See, I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it; for you have a little strength, have kept My word, and have not denied My name.