When our youth group returned from the Dominican Republic in early January and introduced our congregation a few weeks later to worship "Dominican style", I had to think how little joy and exuberance is present during most of our "regular" Services. And to be honest, I envy somewhat our pentecostal brothers and sisters, and those Christians from African and similar backgrounds where the aspect of celebration seems much more central to their weekly gatherings than it is usually the case here within our more reserved mix of German and Canadian culture.
Would it be impossible or even unnecessary to try and change that? After all - one could argue - a disposition of quiet reflection and meditation is just as valid and important as other ways of expressing faith and gratitude toward God. And what would be the point of having to coerce people to act in a way that is not a genuine desire of their own heart?
My suspicion is that there's more to these differences than just preferences in style or variety of taste. Maybe we lack joy and exuberance simply because we've lost almost completely the appreciation for who God is and what He's given us. Another root of the problem may be that we've become so inward-focussed that the lack of seeing people come to faith (and with it the joy that we've been able to make a difference in someone's life!) contributes to a much more lethargic and seemingly emotionless disposition.
I believe joyful celebration not only needs to be encouraged more in our midst but also will inevitably show up when we start caring more about the need of others than our own. I think our youth would certainly concur!
