I was recently asked the question, "Why a parade?" The answer came quickly..."Why not a parade?" Our purpose as believers here on earth is to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ by any means possible before He returns. Our job description has not changed since Matthew 28, when he commissioned us to "Go ye into all the world...", our work place; our neighborhood; our classroom; the streets; wherever there are people in search of a Savior. As we go out into the public arena to worship the Most High God, it gives Him permission to move amongst a lost and dying world. Those who are empty and hungry searching for an answer are able to taste of something that will fill their empty void and satisfy them for eternity.
The harvest is more plenteous than ever before, yet the laborers are even fewer. Why should we hide behind the four walls when there's no persecution? We need to be out in the public on a regular basis like the Book of Acts Church who added daily to their numbers as they went out to spread the Good News.
The presence of God can cause great joy as well as great conviction. Our task is to simply carry that presence wherever we go. We are like walking "Arks of the Covenant," "Temples of God."
By simply celebrating God and worshiping on the streets, many can be drawn to Christ. Our exuberant expression of our love for God and love for people will welcome people into the Kingdom of God rather than turn them away.
This year the 14th Annual Jesus in the City Parade takes place on Saturday, September 7th, 2013 at Queen's Park, Toronto. Let the trumpets sound and let our voices resound as we lift up the Name of Jesus in the City!
Together in His Service,
Ayanna Solomon
Festival of Praise International / Jesus in the City Parade
