One of my fellow riders on the Lutheran Hour Ministries Rose Parade float on January 2, 2017 was Yvette Seltz. It was interesting to hear her perspective of the crowd from her view from the LHM float so I have invited her to share her story with you. Here’s what Yvette had to share:

Parades are typically held for celebration or for military purposes which are quite declarative and ceremonial. I believe that our LHM float represented both — a celebration and a proclamation that Christ is with us. Indeed, my position next to my husband, Rev. Dr. Gregory Seltz, Speaker of the Lutheran Hour, had us seated at the right hand of Jesus, represented by Pastor Matthew Nolte, of St. Paul Lutheran Church, Agoura Hills, CA. Our unique position on the float allowed us to view people’s expressions as Jesus came into their sight. So many children shouted out “Jesus, I love you!” and “Happy Birthday Jesus!” Many posed for pictures with Jesus and people wanted Jesus to hand them a flower.

Riding in the front was exciting and a bit unnerving as one doesn’t know what to expect in terms of reactions. I was fully aware that I was being viewed and representing Lutheran Hour Ministries, our Church, and other Christian communities.  Being a pastor’s wife and being a Christian who chooses to share faith in Jesus is a lot like riding in my position on that float. We sit at His feet, we proclaim Him, and we open ourselves up for any reaction all for the sake of others.

I couldn’t help but notice the different expressions between socio-economic classes and our float. Those who were weary were not as joyfully expressive; rather, their expressions were more expressions of hope. You could almost see them breathe easier as our float paused before them. Christ’s message of peace, love, and hope brings real comfort. Dick Gast said, “The float is a billboard”, indeed it is. And it carries a priceless message.