In the past few months, I have had the rare opportunity to go to Rapid City for clogging lessons weekly. I drove over 100 miles – one way – every week – to clog with real human instructors and others. Why would I do that if I could learn it on the internet and continue it on my own? Here’s what I’ve learned:

1. Being in person with instructors has greatly enhanced my understanding and abilities. Working with trained instructors has allowed me to learn more difficult step sequences and new dances that I was virtually unable to learn on my own. Having someone I could ask hard questions of – and gotten answers – has been immensely helpful. As well, I have been able to master a few steps better simply because I could ask for the repeated instruction and practice that I needed.

2. Clogging with the gathered community provides a richer experience. Hearing the rhythmic sound of your own feet tapping to the beat is very rewarding. But hearing twenty pairs of feet tapping to the beat in unison is just exhilarating. There is something so much more invigorating when you get to share the sound, the music, and the experience with others.

3. I have something to contribute to the gathering. Even with my novice experience, I was surprised and somewhat pleased when I realized that I had something to offer the group. In the moments when I got brave enough and offered my suggestion, it was readily and even energetically received. I had insights that the group both needed and appreciated.

4. Encouragement and belonging. A few have taken me “under their wing.” They’ve encouraged me and made me feel welcome. They’ve genuinely taken to getting to know me. I am delighted to have this community of cloggers in my corner. Additionally, I have been encouraged to just be in the room with some. One of the participants is an octogenarian! In the moments when I feel unable to keep up, or like I can’t learn a particular move, I keep trying, knowing that she is too!

Our journey with God in Christ is one of the most rewarding things we can do in life. And indeed, it is something that must be done on the personal level and with some serious personal devotion. Additionally, it is something that we can engage in at any time and in any place. We don’t need to be in church to connect with God. And in these days, the internet is quite helpful in offering us top rate sermons and encouraging devotionals. It can be tempting to think that we really don’t need to go to church to grow deeper in our relationship with Jesus.

My experience of clogging in community has added so much benefit, and it seems to me that being connected to a community of believers is similar. I encourage you to consider the above benefits in worshiping Almighty God with others in community. And I pray that these words encourage you to connect to a worshiping community.