Editor’s Note
by Editor(s)

Regular readers of our magazine will notice that this issue looks different. And indeed it is, as the truly awesome events that have unfolded in the U.K. fellowship are foregrounded. The testimonies of Joanna Langley, of her family and friends bear out the truth which Norman Grubb explores in our lead article, "Love in Action": "It is God’s intercession and God’s believing, consummated in God’s appearing in a situation, reconciling some part of His lost creation to Himself."

When, in the same lead article, Norman wrote "all is circular" he might have been formulating the keynote for this issue of The Intercessor. With characteristic clarity and incisiveness Ginny Mansoor pens "Zerubbabel Focus" which is most aptly on intercession. Ginny begins simply by asking "What is intercession?" Suffice it to say here that she answers that question and in her final sentence refers us full circle to Meryl Langley’s article on "Joanna’s Return."
When Colette Burger shares the details of a recent and very radical transformation in her life, she begins thus: "Losing my job was one of the best things that ever happened to me." The testimony which follows is an irresistible account of how believing who we really are is truly life-changing and guarantees "real heartbeat and passion."

Tommy Prewitt’s stimulating review of C.T. Studd, Cricketer and Pioneer which also begins paradoxically: "Do not read it if…" concludes "do not dare to not read it." Tommy’s excitement about this compelling biography is infectious.

Among the regular features retained in this issue are updates from the recent Irish Conference and the Annual Business Meeting. "Tape Talk" reviews Page Prewitt’s excellent audiotape, "Life is Difficult."

Brett Burrowes’ "Bible Study" on Hannah and Eli highlights perfectly the recurring themes of the magazine. Hannah and Eli are contrasted in terms of how they deal with their children. Hannah embraces the discipline of being brought to desperation and she moves from despair to faith. Brett powerfully juxtaposes "the legacy of Hannah’s sacrifice" with the annihilation of the house of Eli–a direct consequence of Eli’s indulgence of his sons and his refusal to discipline them.

The remarkable interconnectedness of all the features of this issue focus us on restoration and God’s absolute faithfulness. at encouragement this magazine is to those of us "who stand in the gap" as we read!