Fire in our hearts - Jesus Army

FIRE IN OUR HEARTS
AWAKE O ZION!
It was going to be pricey, but if we could raise the 10 per
cent deposit we would be in with a chance. It was a risky
venture of faith, and felt like crossing a rickety bridge over a
wide river. But on the other side was a new land. After a time
of discussion, Cyril, who was an architect, summed up the
general feeling at the leaders’ meeting: ‘Cor! We can’t afford
to miss this!’
Two examples inspired us as we turned to the Scriptures.
One was Joshua taking the Promised Land through conquering
faith. The other, in Acts 4, was how many in the Jerusalem
church sold their possessions and ‘put [the money] at the apostles’
feet’ (Acts 4:35). Our giving increased and people sold
things off. Rings and jewellery were handed in. We had also
begun buying in bulk and living more economically. One or
two couples pledged their houses, desiring to move into the
large home. Others gave or loaned their savings.
There was a tremendous sense of expectancy. Together we
circled this ‘Jericho’ in faith. Some gave themselves to prayer
and fasting, recognising that this was a spiritual battle. The
Lord gave a word from Isaiah 1:19: ‘If you are willing and
obedient, you will eat the best from the land.’
The day of the auction came. Cyril sat at the front while
Noel was at the back praying. The reporters watched Noel
like hawks but soon directed their attention to Cyril who continued
bidding. He’d hoped for a ceiling of £55,000 but stuck
with it till they all dropped out at £67,000.
Rodger and I were thrilled when we heard. Pete drove us
into the Hall grounds that summer evening, and I leapt out of
the minibus and did cartwheels over the lawn. To me the park-
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