On New Year’s morning I took a break from loads of laundry and paused to watch a few moments of the Rose Parade. Since I have been there a few times to watch it in person, I appreciate the beauty and creativity of these magnificent floats. I also enjoy the marching bands. As the Salvation Army band marched through the streets of Pasadena, the song they were playing brought words to my mind as well as memories from my Sunday school years. Stand Up, Stand Up for Jesus was always one of my favorite songs, and I loved how we had to stand up when we sang the song. Even as a child, I was inspired by its bold message and motivating lyrics.

Stand up, stand up for Jesus, ye soldiers of the cross;
lift high His royal banner, it must not suffer loss.
From victory unto victory, His army shall He lead,
’til every foe is vanquished and Christ is Lord indeed.

The song was penned by George Duffield in 1858. Little did he know that a century-and-a-half later, his song would be played on the streets of Pasadena to a crowd of thousands.

The words to this song are timeless. Being a follower of Jesus Christ means being in His army. We are His soldiers on a spiritual battlefield. As we face a new year, let’s put on our spiritual armor and boldly stand up for Jesus Christ. And if your children do not know this song—teach it to them!

(The lyrics to the other three verses of this song can be found by a simple Google search. Just type in the title: Stand Up, Stand Up for Jesus, and you will find several sites that include the lyrics and also the tune.)

Here’s to standing up in 2013!

Crystal Bowman