Basket Case

Transporting instruments for worship can be a challenge. Many dance ministry vendors today are providing unique flag bags for carrying a variety of large and small flags. When ministering in another location, these can be useful to conserve space and maintain the element of surprise. When stored correctly, flags transported in this manner can be used with ease, and then properly returned to the bag for later use.

A different approach may be used when transporting billow cloths and other worship fabrics. Delicate fabrics usually end up with creases or wrinkles that may be visible to the viewer when removed for use. There are a couple of options that we can try to ease the common challenges associated with these items. Fabrics should be prepared beforehand by using a fabric steamer or an iron on a very low setting with a barrier or protectant between the fabric and the iron. It is not a great idea to use an iron on painted or heavily decorated fabrics. If we must, we can carry a small hand steamer with us if we need to do any last minute maintenance on site.

After smoothing them out, we can gently fold them and place them over a hanger or inside a wide basket if we will travel by automobile. Fabrics placed on a triangluar hanger can be hung with minimal disturbance during the journey, whereas a large wicker basket can perform double duty and be used as a prop in the piece. A combination of the two elements can be used. A basket will also allow for a quick transition for placing the collected billows and flags inside after the piece is complete.

Baskets can also be used as symbolic worship elements in other ways. Wicker baskets come in many sizes and shapes and can be easily spray painted as needed. They are relatively light, and can serve in a multitude of ways. Baskets used in movement can convey giving, receiving, protection (Moses), provision, overflow, abundance, harvest (gathering), and so much more. When we explore the options to include dance, props, fabrics, flags, banners, and pageantry, we can continue to move with unlimited possibilities.

Deuteronomy 26:4 (NKJV)
“Then the priest shall take the basket out of your hand and set it down before the altar of the LORD your God.

Deuteronomy 28:5 (NKJV)
Blessed shall be your basket and your kneading bowl.

Matthew 16:9 (NKJV)
Do you not yet understand, or remember the five loaves of the five thousand and how many baskets you took up?

Acts 9:25 (NKJV)
Then the disciples took him by night and let him down through the wall in a large basket.