Barhobble Church

Barhobble Church is the name given to a small, ruined site in Dumfriesshire, Scotland, close to the House of Elrick of Gavin Maxwell fame. It is the site of three or four churches from a 1400-year period, the earliest of which goes back to the Dark Ages. Although the medieval church was not a generally blazing sun of gospel light, this quiet little corner of Scotland may once have been a bright lamp. Now it is ruinous and hidden beneath the undergrowth, an awkward spot to approach from an obscure rural lane. Although its decay strikes a note of sadness, and the decline of Christianity seems more evident in Scotland than even England, we should remember that there are parts of the world under idols’ thrall for millennia which now resound to the praises of the Living God. Iranians, Chinese, Arabs and Koreans are now just as likely to hear the gospel as a Scot. A derelict church is not evidence of the Holy Spirit’s indolence, but it may suggest that He is concentrating His gracious calls in other lands.

For from the rising of the sun unto the going down of the same, my Name is great among the Gentiles, and in every place incense shall be offered unto my Name, and a pure offering: for my Name is great among the heathen, saith the Lord of hosts. Malachi 1:11, geneva Bible