Christian Focus

I love islands, especially those on the western edge of Europe. It was the cover that first grabbed my attention; a muted snapshot of a man and a young boy aboard a small fishing boat looking directly at the reader, a bank of cloud their backdrop. The clouds seem to presage the mighty working of God in an austere and lonely place.
The book tells of the revival on the Isle of Lewis, 1949-52. This is no dry documentary though. The writers skillfully bring together the revival reports of Duncan Campbell which provide us with an overview or a timeline, with quite thrilling personal testimonies from many key figures. There is some cross-over and repetition but this serves to substantiate memories and to give a rounded view of that time of exceptional blessing. The Peckhams also provide loads of background and insight. Their approach is scholarly, but never dull because this is a work of the heart. Mary Peckham came to faith in the revival and her testimony is included.
The writing is crisp, but never lacks warmth. The voices of witness are vivid. This book transcends its genre, the narrative thrust is sustained. It is a `ripping yarn` that oozes humility. Above all it gives the glory to God.
It is hard to see how we might replicate the specific conditions that gave rise to the Lewis revival of 1949-1952. There are however principles we can seek to apply in our personal search for revival and in a wider sphere, chief among these is a lively and sustained expectation in our dealings with God and a real heartfelt sense of our indwelling sin, which we must take to Him so the blood of the lamb might cover it.
Need I say this book is highly commended!

Alun Jones, Wrexham

A graphic report of a deep move of God's Holy Spirit.
This was no shallow account of man's feeble attempt to emulate a work of God with noise and manifestations, but an account of moving beauty and power.
The testimonies were marvellous examples of a Lord who was willing to woo unbelievers for as long as it took, until they surrendered with joy unspeakable to His great love for them.
Not a book to loan out, it will never return. Buy your friends a copy as a present, then pray and wait for the results!.

Tony. Chichester, W. Sussex.