'And afterward, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions.’ - Joel 2:28

More than likely, Joel 2:28 has been greatly fulfilled within the New Testament through the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, as is recorded in the Book of Acts. However, I’ve recently witnessed in some measure, an event that also fulfills the essence of the above mentioned scripture.

Whether it was the ‘pouring out of God’s Spirit on all people’, or the ‘prophesying of sons and daughters’, ‘Righteous Escalation 2K9 was a clear reminder to all who were present, that we indeed still do live in biblical times. The annual concert, which is the brainchild of the members of the Dunamis Band, celebrated its second year in production on October 31^st, 2009.

However, most would agree that this year’s concert was by far, much more successful than last year’s concert. Not to discredit the first effort, which in itself was a great success, but this time around the evidence of growth was unavoidable. Whether it was the excellent planning and organizing, the promotion, the diversity of performances, or the abundance of patrons who attended and cluttered the hall and balcony of the Ruimveldt Life Improvement Centre (A.O.G.), the event was tremendously successful.

However, though the concert was a great opportunity to unwind, to jump up and wave one’s hands rigorously in the air – whether accompanied by a flag or not, and to scream until there’s no longer sound, but only air progressing from your mouth, the main object of the concert was achieved: Evangelism!

What I found was especially unique about Righteous Escalation 2K9, was that there was an intricately woven combination of ‘evangelism’ with ‘fun and enjoyment’. Too often are the two seen as diverging forces, or as some would more bluntly put it, “oil and water don’t mix!”

The success with which Righteous Escalation 2K9 managed to balance such a combination – oil and water, I would accredit to the zealousness, commitment and youthfulness of the organizers – who were mainly youth of the church.

But it was not youthfulness alone that permitted the success of the venture. The simple grace with which the leadership of the church assisted, allowed the youth to take control, while honoring Godly principles and at the same time, addressing the needs of young people – i.e., to be youth.

Among those invited to grace the stage were Solid Youth, Kester Dean, Renee Winter, Trenacia Esseboom, Melissa Vandeyhar and the Christlike Soldiers.

In house performers Rashlie Joseph, Jasmin Harris, Jermaine Dewsberry, the Glorifiers and the newcomer, Trevor Smith also shared the stage.

Altogether, Righteous Escalation left the majority of attendees with a similar thought – “I can’t wait for Righteous Escalation 2K10!”

By, The Newcomer