In the
African country where my friend Roxanne lives, water is a precious commodity.
People often have to travel long distances to collect water from small,
contaminated creeks—leading to sickness and death. It’s difficult for
organizations like orphanages and churches to serve the people because of a
lack of water. But that’s beginning to change.
Through
Roxanne’s leadership and the unselfish gifts of some loving people in
established churches, clean water wells are being dug. At least six new wells
are now operational, allowing churches to be centers of hope and encouragement.
A health center and a home for 700 orphans will also be able to be opened
because of access to water.
That’s
the kind of love that can flow from believers in Christ when we have
experienced the love and generosity of God. Paul says in 1 Corinthians 13 that
if we don’t have love, our voices clang on people’s ears and our faith means
nothing. And the apostle John says that if we have material possessions and see
others in need and take action, that’s evidence that God’s love is abiding in
us (1 John 3:16).
God desires that we deal “graciously” (Ps. 112:5) with those in need, for His heart is gracious toward us.
