The dance of blessing.

Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67; Psalm 45:10-17; Romans 7:15-25; Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30

Responding to a hierarchical temple and an elitist religious life, Jesus calls for a life-giving spirituality that can laugh, cry, and dance. Jesus is more than a law-giving preacher of commandments and golden rules; he gives (and lives) a way that is celebratory in its servanthood and gladly generous in its sacrifices. Attuned to the tragedies already carried by much of humanity, his way offers gracious good news: "[M]y yoke is easy, and my burden is light" (Matthew 11:30).

Paul projects this dance of blessing when he delights "in the law of God in my inmost self" (Romans 7:22). Inwardly, Paul's "law of the mind" does battle with his selfish desires "of the flesh." His resolution? He delights in God's Spirit and gives thanks. So, too, Rebekah knew this delight in the blessing she received from her mother and brother upon her decision to go with Isaac and become his wife: "May you, our sister, become thousands of myriads" (Genesis 24:60).

A delighted, dancing response to a generous God ought not produce a faith that is so bent on controlling ourselves that we must crusade against others to subdue an unruly world. There is another way, says Jesus: "Take my yoke ... learn ... for I am gentle" (Matthew 11:29). Dance on--it will change the world.