From the Floor, Up!

Too many leaders have it backwards. Instead of desiring to serve those whom the Lord sends us, many esteem the privilege of leadership to mean that we are to be served. True dance ministry leaders often work long hours planning activities, researching, reading, preparing garments, organizing props, listening to music, counseling and encouraging dancers, maintaining families, serving the congregation, and so on. This is where many of us start... but is this where we stay?

As the Lord has elevated some dance ministry leaders, the temptation to "pass the buck" and feel as though we should be honored for our labor may creep in. While delegation is a sign of good leadership, assigning tasks based on the notion that paying our dues means that we no longer have to work can lead to major problems and division within the ministry. Expecting to be honored financially or lavished with gifts can become problematic when we reward people based on what they can give us personally.

What type of blueprint did Jesus provide? He washed the feet of His disciples in the ultimate expression of what it is to lead by example. Washing the feet of others goes beyond the natural posture of humbling ourselves and must be an integral part of our character and personality as leaders. Making a regular practice of serving and spending time with those we lead will help us remain attached as a unified Body.

As we prayerfully consider those we lead, we must never fail to begin with humility. The view from the floor allows us to find something to look up to in those who follow us. It also reminds us to consider that the feet we train to move deserve to be cared for as well. We must be willing to take off our "titles" and be clothed with humility so that we may serve the people of God in an even greater capacity. If we are not willing to decrease, we do not allow the Lord to increase in our lives and ministries.


New King James Bible Version

2 Samuel 22:28
You will save the humble people; But Your eyes are on the haughty, that You may bring them down.

2 Chronicles 12:6
So the leaders of Israel and the king humbled themselves; and they said, “The LORD is righteous.”

Proverbs 29:23
A man’s pride will bring him low, but the humble in spirit will retain honor.

John 13:8
Peter said to Him, “You shall never wash my feet!” Jesus answered him, “If I do not wash you, you have no part with Me.”

Romans 12:16
Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion.