Thousands lined up outside Rupp Arena for this year’s Winter Jam ’09 Tour Spectacular, dubbed the “largest annual tour in the history of Christian Music.” This year’s concert was, thanks to the weather, light on the Winter, and thanks to the artists, heavy on the Jam.

Kicking off the Pre-Jam Concert were newcomers Unspoken. Their island inspired rhythms, along with the memory of the warm afternoon sun, had me almost sensing a gentle breeze from some far off Caribbean coastline. In addition to their island vibe, Unspoken showcased their versatility with some Philly soul.

Next – a healthy dose of straight-up rock ‘n’ roll from Stephanie Smith. Her gritty, gutsy vocals were perfectly matched by her band, especially the bassist who bounced and thumped his way through each and every song.

Tween group PureNRG exploded onto the stage with gymnastic flips, tight choreography and catchy melodies. Halfway through their set, the three singer-dancers, slowed it down for some worship songs, allowing the 12,000+ crowd at Rupp to join in singing praises to God. To close their set, PureNRG performed such a rousing version of “Footloose” it would have caused Kevin Bacon to pass out. All of this, believe it or not, was still just the Pre-Jam Concert!

Right before the main part of Winter Jam started, the emcee led in a prayer. Then as the house lights dimmed, purple and blue lights shone through the rising smoke, and using her powerful alto voice, singer/songwriter Francesca Battistelli encouraged all of us to experience the true freedom we all can have in knowing Jesus. Her heart to spur others on was evident in each song.

Newsong, the founders and official host of Winter Jam, took the stage next and led us in a variety of tunes, ranging from “Sweet Home Alabama” to their stirring celebration of Jesus’ resurrection, “Arise, My Love.” Careful and timely use of lights lit up Rupp like the glory of a brand new morning. Everyone jumped and cheered, exulting in the greatest event this world has ever witnessed. Clearly we had come to the centerpiece of why a Winter Jam had ever been conceived.

And the celebration continued as the youthful 4-man band Hawk Nelson blew us away with smoke cannons, flashing lights, and oh yes, their brand of high-octane rock ‘n’ roll.

Speaker and Pastor, Tony Nolan, got the crowd laughing with a hilarious story of a serious brush with death he had. With the zeal of an old-time revival preacher, Tony invited all of us to be prepared for the reality that all of us will face death. He wryly observed, “You know, death runs in my family.” But he also made the point that through Jesus we can have life. Hundreds of people responded to his invitation to trust their lives to the leadership of Jesus.

Following Tony’s invitation, we heard the story of Kim, a man who as a baby had been adopted from South Korea. This was particularly moving for me since my wife and I know first-hand the joys of adoption. The purpose was to feature one of the most outstanding international adoption agencies, Holt International. We all were challenged to consider supporting children (especially in China) awaiting adoption. I strongly urge you to check out Holt’s work.

So we could catch our collective breath, as well as reflect on all that had been sung and said, we had a brief intermission. Then the house lights dimmed again and it was time to get ready for the final two acts. First came the power-pop band, The Afters, who after a short 3-song set left me wanting much more. Then the final and probably most anticipated artist took the stage with his band…TobyMac and the Diverse City Band. He was glad to be back in Kentucky especially after having been rained out at the Ichthus Festival. For the next 45 minutes we all rocked, jumped, and shouted like the “Jesus Freaks” Toby sings about. Blending rap, funk, rock and soul, TobyMac and Diverse City led us in what must have been one of wildest and happiest celebrations of God’s love in Lexington.

To close the night, all the artists came back on stage, dancing, singing and reveling together in the joy that makes Winter Jam so special. I’m thankful for this chance to be reminded of my joy in Jesus, and I’m even more thankful that there were probably hundreds of others who came to know Jesus and his joy for the first time that special night of Winter Jam at Rupp Arena.

Guest Blogged by: Reid Thomas
House Photographer: Wes Allen
View More Photos From the Show: Facebook Album (More Coming Soon)