Triumphal Procession
By Shirley Mitchell
“But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of him.”
2 Corinthians 2:14
In ancient Rome, the triumphal procession was a public parade. They celebrated the military accomplishments of the commander who had great military success. He was elevated to near-kingly status for the day of triumph. Since the video cameras did not exist to capture the actual video footage of the war, artists painted the battle scenes which were carried through the procession. People lined up on rooftops to capture any sight of the battle. The enemy kings were chained and forced to walk the way of humiliation past the onlookers and jeerers.
2 Corinthians tells us that our God has a specific role in our quest to follow Him. He always leads us in triumphal procession. God leads us in a victory parade. He is our Jehovah Nissi, the LORD is our Banner, leading us triumphantly. God goes “on point,” as we said in the military, before us. He guides us and shows us the way to go through unnavigated and unchartered territory.
Isaiah 52:12 says not only will the LORD go before you, but He will also be our rear guard. He can do this in many ways. He will protect us from enemy assault from behind us. Have you ever noticed in the armor of God described in Ephesians 6 that we wear nothing to cover our rear? Additionally, He covers the details left behind. When we are called to move into the next place of service, God is responsible for what happens to our old ministry responsibility, not us.
I have a picture of this procession every morning when I drop my daughters off at school. They only have seconds to get out of the van before they stall the drop off line. Sophia slides the door open and hops out first. She is “on point.” As the front guard, she leads the way ensuring the other girls follow her. Mikayla helps Victoria out of her car seat and out of the van. Mikayla walks behind making sure they all get inside the building quickly. She is the rear guard. As a 4-year old, Victoria is helpless to get out of the van and in the building safely without having her guard. She represents you and me. Sophia and Mikayla represent God’s role. Beloved, we are absolutely as helpless as a 4-year old in the drop off line to parade in victory without Him. Additionally, we are completely dependent on His timing for the entire procession. When He says it is time to go, we had better go or else we create chaos in the line.
Gosh, this means so much to me! You and I are protected by the mighty hand of God! His hand is behind us and before us. He is making a great painting of the battles that we have fought. In the heavenly realms, the crowd of witnesses sees something worth celebrating and giving glory to the King of kings! Precious friend, the way may be unknown, but we can trust the One who guides our way, protects our rear, and brings victory that is worthy of a grand procession!
Pray with me: Oh, Lord, You are not just king for a day, but You are King of all times! Thank You for leading us in a triumphal procession. You parade us through the heavenly realms. We show You off as King and mighty in battle. Lord, we are victors, not wimps. You protect us – behind us and before us. Make us strong and courageous so that we will keep moving in the procession and bring You honor and glory. It’s in the Name above all names, in Jesus’ Name, Yeshua’s Name, I pray. Amen.
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