Fire in our hearts - The Jesus Army

FIRE IN OUR HEARTS THE LORD TOOK HOLD OF BUGBROOKEsters who came round enjoyed the vitality and family atmosphereat Bugbrooke. Mim, though, hadn’t been baptised inthe Spirit yet.No sooner had the first evening meeting begun, than Carolgot up and delivered one of the ‘words of knowledge’ thatGod often gave her. ‘Mim is going to get baptised in the Spirit— tonight!’ she declared, and by the end of the evening Mimwas speaking in tongues.That night the sisters’ dormitory was invaded by flying beetles,so Carol had an idea. She got out of bed, mustered upher spiritual authority and shouted: ‘I rebuke you beetles inthe name of Jesus!’ The poor beetles were never seen again!The theme for the fortnight at Kilravock Castle was ‘Rejoicealways’. Friendship, worship and fresh air combined tomake, in Mim’s words, ‘a terrific holiday’. For Noel it was achance to spend more time with leaders as they sought theway forward. One thing was clear — the change in Carol wasamazing. It was a power conversion and a power baptism.They read in Acts of how Paul met some disciples who knewonly ‘John’s baptism’ (Acts 19:3). Something was wrong. Theytrusted in Jesus, but lacked life and power. Paul baptised themagain and, as he laid hands on them, they ‘spoke with tonguesand prophesied’. The Holy Spirit had come upon them! NowNoel saw baptism in a new light. It was a gateway into furtherblessing, and Carol and Malcolm had passed through.A few weeks on, and up to forty people crowded into themanse. It was hot and the windows were flung open. The roombuzzed with life and there was hugging and praising. Kellyand Norma were two pentecostals who were so impressed49