A Victory Parade for Jesus: Celebrating Jesus Daily

By Katherine Barner

In 2016, I had the chance to attend the Denver Broncos’ Super Bowl victory parade. Now, let me be upfront: I’m a die-hard Dallas Cowboys fan! Any football enthusiast understands that acknowledging a team's outstanding performance or season is crucial. However, to be honest, my Cowboys were championship-challenged at that time. Thus, I decided to join the festivities.

A Day of Celebration in Denver

The parade itself was a grand spectacle. The City of Denver estimated that over one million people lined the streets to cheer for their beloved team. The excitement was palpable, especially as the crowds eagerly awaited their favorite players—Peyton Manning, Von Miller, and the rest of the Super Bowl champions.

The city pulled out all the stops. People came out in droves, proudly wearing their Broncos gear. My son and I started the day at my daughter’s apartment, and as soon as we hit the streets, we found ourselves surrounded by fans. I overheard people discussing how they called in sick for the day so they could attend the parade.

There were school-aged children waving Broncos banners. Clearly, the school had granted them a day off. Some were on their lunch break. Some drove in from the outlying suburbs and walked for blocks just to get a spot along the parade route in hopes of getting a glimpse of their favorite player.

Downtown apartments, lofts, and office buildings emptied out as fans spilled onto the streets, all with one goal—cheering on their team.

What If Jesus Had a Victory Parade?

As I stood there, amid a sea of orange and blue, I couldn’t help but wonder: What if there was a victory parade for Jesus? Would it attract the same kind of crowd? Would people drop everything, come from all directions, and gather in great numbers to celebrate Jesus?

The truth is, during His time on earth, Jesus drew immense crowds. The Gospels often describe "great multitudes" following Him, captivated by His teachings, in awe of His miracles, and eager to hear from Him. Jesus’ message of love, hope, and redemption drew people in, and they came from far and wide to see Him. But what about today?

Would we still flock to celebrate Him with the same enthusiasm as we do our favorite sports teams or celebrities? Don’t get me wrong, there’s nothing wrong with cheering on your favorite sports team or supporting your favorite entertainer. But do you praise the One who died for you with the same vigor and enthusiasm? Do people know you’re a part of His team? Does your clothing represent you’re on His team? Do people know from your conversation that you're following Him?

Where Do We Place Our Devotion?

There’s nothing wrong with being passionate about our interests. But when it comes to Jesus—the One who offers us eternal life—are we showing the devotion He is due?

As women, we juggle multiple roles, often pouring ourselves into our families, careers, or hobbies. But do those around us know that we’re committed to Christ? Do our lives reflect that we are women of valor, grace, and faith?

Think of a woman who volunteers at church every week, leads Bible studies, or serves in her community. Her faith is evident in her actions. Just as we make time for hobbies or family events, we must prioritize our relationship with Jesus, and that naturally shows in the way we live.

Jesus Himself says, “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” – Matthew 6:33 NKJV

It’s easy to become consumed with our responsibilities and interests, but Jesus calls us to place Him above everything else. When we prioritize our devotion to Christ, He promises to take care of the rest. As women of valor, our example can inspire others to seek Jesus first in their own lives, showing that our true fulfillment comes from Him.

Celebrating Jesus Every Day

Jesus’ love and grace are not just for Sundays. We should celebrate Him every day, in every aspect of our lives. Just as fans go to great lengths to celebrate their favorite teams, we, as women, can go out of our way to honor and glorify Jesus in our daily routines—whether at work, home, or even during conversations with friends.

If you're a busy stay-at-home mom, you start your day in prayer to seek God's guidance before the day's demands, which you know can take over. You could be at your job but still find moments to praise Jesus during your commute or lunch break.

In this psalm, David wrote: “I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth.” – Psalm 34:1 NKJV

So, whether you’re working through challenges or celebrating small victories, there are opportunities throughout the day to lift your heart to God. By taking even a few moments to reflect on His goodness and pray, we can keep our focus on Him. In doing so, we allow His love to guide our actions and bring peace into every corner of our lives.

Bringing Jesus into the World

Our faith should be visible in how we live, treat others, and express our love for Jesus. We, as women of valor, have unique opportunities to be Christ's hands and feet, whether by nurturing our families, sharing wisdom with younger generations, or being a source of encouragement in our communities. Just as fans proudly wear their team's colors, we should wear Christ's love for all to see.

For example, a grandmother who regularly gathers her grandchildren to pray or teaches them Bible stories brings Jesus into her family. Her love for Christ shines through her actions, leaving a lasting impact on the younger generations and inspiring them in their faith.

As the Bible says, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16 (NKJV)

Through small yet impactful acts of faith and love, we can deeply influence our families and communities, embodying Christ’s teachings. By staying close to God’s Word and sharing it, we can make Jesus' presence felt in the world around us.

Jesus Also Celebrates Us and Our Victory in Him!

Jesus not only gives us victory through His sacrifice, but He also celebrates with us our triumphs over sin, challenges, and hardships. He rejoices when we walk in faith, when our families are brought closer to Him, and when we reflect His love to others. This celebration of our victories in Him is a reflection of His deep love for us and the power of His grace in our lives.

Just as fans celebrate their team’s success, Jesus celebrates with us in our spiritual victories. We, as women of valor, grace, and faith, strive to live lives that embody our devotion to Him.

The Bible reminds us, “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” – 1 Corinthians 15:57 NKJV

This verse highlights that victory in Christ is something He celebrates alongside us. His presence in our lives ensures that we are never alone, even in times of hardship. Jesus walks with us in every trial and takes joy in seeing us live out our faith.

A Call to Celebrate

As we reflect on grand celebrations, like a Super Bowl parade, let’s think about how we can celebrate Jesus in our everyday lives. He is worthy of our praise, our devotion, and our enthusiasm. Whether we’re raising children, managing a career, or serving in ministry, let’s live in a way that reflects our constant celebration of His victory—because, through Him, we are all conquerors.

“Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.” – Romans 8:37 NKJV

Let’s not keep Jesus hidden within the four walls of our homes or churches. He is too good for that. He has bestowed upon us a new life that is too precious to conceal from the world. So, let’s celebrate Jesus today and every day!

By staying close to God’s Word and sharing it, we can make Jesus' presence felt in the world around us.

So, women of valor, let your life speak Jesus, and celebrate Him today and every day!