Gypsy Revival

Rodney Smith came into the world in a rather humble fashion.  He was born in a gypsy tent in Epping Forest, about six miles northeast of London. It was as a result of this that he received his nickname Rodney "Gypsy" Smith.  When he was at the age of 16, through the witness of his father, hearing Ira Sankey sing, and visiting the home of John Bunyan, who had years before written the book Pilgrim's Progress, Gypsy began a relationship with God by trusting in Jesus through faith.

Gypsy began teaching himself to read and write so he could then begin to preach.  He would also sing hymns to those he met and became known as "the singing gypsy boy."  Throughout his life, it is reported that Gypsy crossed the Atlantic Ocean approximately 45 times to preach the good news of Jesus Christ to the throngs of people on both sides.

Once Gypsy was asked how to experience personal and mass revival.  Gypsy responded saying, “Go home. Lock yourself in your room. Kneel down in the middle of the floor, and with a piece of chalk draw a circle round yourself. There, on your knees, pray fervently and brokenly that God would start a revival within that chalk circle.”

Summertime can refresh our body as we take breaks and vacations.  But only God can restore the soul and bring a revival of heart, mind, soul, and strength.  Indeed it is right to pray for the revival of God's people and revival in our country.  However, Gypsy's words are pointed.  We must begin within the chalk circle. 

The Psalmist asked for revival from God in Psalm 85:6.  He writes, "Will You not Yourself revive us again, That Your people may rejoice in You?" 

Jesus desires to change the world through the passionate devotion of His people.  Will you grab a piece of chalk with me today and circle yourself in while asking God to start with transforming our church and our world right inside that circle?