A BITTERLY cold February wind blew in our faces for much of the three day campaign and a few reactions we had to the gospel matched the wind. This was a sharp reminder that radical Christianity won’t always go down well in the UK today.

Thankfully, most people who came over to talk to us were glad to see us and warm towards what we were doing.

Birmingham City Council had given us permission to park the bus in some prime locations in the centre, so we were there to be seen, ready to answer questions about the Christian faith and to preach the good news that Jesus offers salvation to all who will believe Him. Kitted up in our Jesus Army jackets, with a fervent sense of unity and strong brotherhood, we got out onto the streets to meet the people.

The team was drawn from many nations and community households. Campaign leader, Simon Knight, had been given a clear prophetic word to ‘waste himself for the church’ and felt the challenge to be obedient to this calling. The highlight of the campaign for Simon was the opportunity to minister to a homeless man, who had come onto the bus with injuries to his hand. By the time he left, his wounds were cleaned up and bandaged and he’d been prayed for.

On the third day of the campaign, Farhad, one of our Iranian brothers, who works as a translator, led two people to the Lord. One of them was immediately filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in tongues.

Friday night was inspirational for many. Against the backdrop of the ‘Birmingham wheel’, a large contingent of us descended on Sheepcote Street in the heart of the clubbing scene. We had a lively worship time and some stayed by the bus while others went out and met the clubbers. Many had enjoyable conversations as they championed the cause of Jesus.

Sandra spoke to a girl who was brought up in a very religious background and whose heart was hardened against God. She was open to what she was hearing and we are really believing that God will continue His good work in her! Marie brought the gospel to a Kurdish Muslim. He was offered a Bible and accepted.

The campaign was robust and full of life. Mick Haines, a member of the Jesus Fellowship Apostolic Team, said that he gained a new love for the city as he viewed it from the 300 ft wheel that had been brought over from Paris.

I really enjoyed the campaign, too. Not only was it fulfilling to be with other parts of the church, but it was great to enjoy a taste of friendships that are going to last forever.