Dancing in the Darkness

Spiritual Lessons for Thriving in Turbulent Times

De: Otis Moss III, Michael Eric Dyson - introduction, Greg Lichtenberg

Narrado por: Otis Moss III

A “deeply spiritual and socially radical” (Dr. Obery Hendricks, PhD) call to action for those seeking justice and love in an age of division, from Reverend Otis Moss III, one of the most esteemed voices in Black theology and progressive Christianity.

Once again, as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. warned in the 1960s, it is “midnight in America”—a time of civic unrest, racial trauma, and spiritual despair. Drawing from scripture, Howard Thurman, the wisdom of the Black church, and the lived experience of pastoring Chicago’s Trinity United Church of Christ, Reverend Moss calls readers to embrace spiritual resistance rooted in love, justice, and faith-based activism.

In the aftermath of death threats during Barack Obama’s 2008 campaign, Moss faced a moment of inner darkness that turned unexpectedly redemptive when he discovered his young daughter dancing in the night. That sacred moment of revelation inspired the sermon that became this transformative book. Anchored in Psalm 30, the message is clear: “You have turned my mourning into dancing.”

In Dancing in the Darkness, Moss offers a path of spiritual formation, helping readers fight back against systemic racism, bigotry, and polarization with courage, compassion, and clarity. Blending Christian social justice, Southern tradition, global spirituality, and contemporary examples—from the Black Lives Matter movement to everyday moments of grace—this powerful guide reminds us that even in the darkest seasons, we can choose hope over fear and light over shadow.

Perfect for readers of Just Mercy, Becoming Wise, Hallelujah Anyway, and Barking to the Choir, this is a vital companion for anyone seeking to live out their faith with integrity and impact.

Dancing in the dark

Thoroughly enjoyed this spiritual/historical book.
Great job.
Looking forward to the next one already.

Great Storyteller

This book is a great reference of love, inspiration and guidance to return to during any and every part of your life’s journey.

Great Lessons

This book is required reading for all who want to unite our nation in this time of conflict and disunion. The lessons provide sound methods rooted in faith that we can all use to civilly communicate with the other side.

Needed for Now

This important book by contemporary theology of the massive importance gives us the ability to learn and grow

Amazing

This has opened my eyes up to the true meaning of justice and truth…thank you Dr Miss

A Much Needed Reflection on Chaos and Hope

Rev. Dr. Otis Moss, III is as brilliant a writer as he is an orator. Combining many ideas he has played with in the past this book both ulluminans the struggle and points the path to light for us as individuals and as a nation. I am indebted to his work and eager to share it with everyone.

History lesson

Informative listen on African American history. Should be given to every 10 year old African American male.

Compelling, Challenging and Inspiring

Pastor Moss has a gift of storytelling that keeps the reader engaged - feeling like we’re part of the action being played out. This book does so many things. First it educates. The epilogue was a full hour starting with the of the history of slavery and weaving it’s way to jazz. The stories of resilience and faith told throughout this book were encouraging. Pastor Moss’s transparency about his own struggles with fear allowed me to identify with him and trust the path he took to recognizing the beauty in dancing in the darkness. This was not a simple “everything is going to be alright” message. This was a call to action. A call to recognize as a reader that we each have a responsibility to make things better.

History Lessons

This book has some history lessons along with lessons that can save your life. Controlling your anger, learning how to steady yourself against opposition.
A must for the library.

Inspiring Read

A wonderful expression of love, honesty, and humility are woven together with history, and real-life, experiences. Excellent read!