Written by Rob Tervet, who has served as leader of Christ Community Church UK, part of Relational Mission (Newfrontiers). He’s currently studying at Ridley Hall, Cambridge.
A few years back, I inherited a cereal box containing printed extracts of my ancestor Adam Tervit’s diaries. Tervit served as an evangelist to British troops in 1899 during the Second Boer War. I knew the reprinted extracts from his diaries were a priceless treasure, so I saved them for a time I could give them proper attention.
After 15 years of church leadership, I had my first real sabbatical. I chose to read a portion of Tervit’s diaries on most days over the three months. I also plotted his travels on a map and kept my own journal of what I was learning. The preciousness of his vibrant, heartfelt, Christ-exalting faith refreshed me.
We’re used to watching news stories of horrible atrocities where there’s no mention of how God might be working despite the terrible situation. I’ve sometimes quietly wondered whether any gospel light is breaking out through the darkness. Yet as I read my ancestor’s diary, I was stunned to see Christ’s light break through amid one of the most brutal wars in human history (the Second Boer War is infamous for featuring some of the world’s first concentration camps).
Despite the horrendous conditions and human atrocities, my godly ancestor preached his heart out, and scores of troops repented and turned to Christ. Tervit preached on battlefields to men like Robert Wilson, who was shot in both sides of the head. Soon after, my ancestor found Wilson quietly singing praises to Jesus. Tervit offered Wilson a drink, and he replied, “No, give it to the man next to me; I’ve had a drink of the Water of Life.” A few moments later, he died.
Reading these diaries reminded me that our secular culture has lost an incalculably precious treasure. So in my recent article for TGC, I compare Tervit’s diaries with those of a modern-day soldier. I pray that when you see the contrast, Tervit’s faith refreshes you as it did me.
—Rob
