Zumba: Good for the Soul

Lent for me has been very interesting. I began it with the best intentions, trying to really deepen my relationship with God and be transformed by Easter. Now, halfway through, I couldn't feel further from that goal. I have actually been feeling rather discouraged. I've even taken up a terrible habit as of late: one of comparison. For the first time in my life, I have been comparing all aspects of my life to others...not a good idea. I walk around thinking I am not smart enough, pretty enough, thin enough, holy enough, kind enough...etc. Particularly, I have been feeling so frustrated with my Lenten progress, thinking I have been failing and merely wasting away this time of Lent. The whole thing is ridiculous, I admit; it's like gossiping, but in reverse, because the person I am talking poorly about is myself. And despite my prayers, the comparisons and feelings of inadequacy continue. 


Fast forward to this afternoon, when I and my roommate are the ONLY ONES in Zumba class. I love Zumba, despite the fact that I am not a dancer, at all (fact!). So, there I was, with just my roommate and the instructor- who is obviously very talented and fluid in her movements. It was as if God was putting all my discouragement and feelings of inadequacy right in front of me, in a rather silly way that made me confront them. And it was beautiful. Nothing drastic happened, but right there, in Zumba class, I began to think about just how ridiculous I was being. God loves me, for me. Despite how inadequate I feel. And although I can't "feel" God transforming me this Lent, He is. He is right by my side, always, despite these continual "tempting thoughts" to tear myself down. And I even began to see my "frustrations" with my Lenten progress as a blessing--it's Jesus' unique way of allowing me to share in His suffering. So, although I am sure I will still be tempted to compare myself to others (and find myself falling short), God taught me something very important today, and I am excited to continue my Lenten journey with Him, recognizing my faults but being most aware of His enduring love. Zumba is good for the soul! :) 

But now, thus says the LORD,

who created you, Jacob, and formed you, Israel:

Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;

I have called you by name: you are mine.

When you pass through waters, I will be with you;

through rivers, you shall not be swept away.

When you walk through fire, you shall not be burned,

nor will flames consume you.

For I, the LORD, am your God,

the Holy One of Israel, your savior.

I give Egypt as ransom for you,

Ethiopia and Seba--in exchange for you.

Because you are precious in my eyes

and honored, and I love you,

I give people in return for you

and nations in exchange for your life.

(Isaiah 43: 1-4)