All who are thirsty... come to the fountain

A milestone occurred this past Sunday for the village of Afife. A village-wide water distribution system was dedicated and the water began to flow. The project was championed by Pastor Emmanuel Fiagbedzi of the Liberty Center Assemblies of God Church, while the funds for this significant project were donated by Joan and Jerry Colangelo of Phoenix, Arizona. 

Before I continue, let me tell you how and where the village has been getting their water. The village of Afife has no running water. Therefore, they must fetch there water from nearby marshes and ponds. The typical manner in which they fetch the water is using one large metal bucket at a time which they carry on their head back to their home. The filled buckets probably weigh 30 pounds and the distance they carry them can be as great as 1.5 miles. By the way, the water is not pure and is quite salty. Believe me, you would not want to drink it. 

This new water distribution system not only delivers water to 18 strategically located spickets (fountains), but it also delivers much cleaner water which is pumped from three bore holes and stored in two water towers. The new system is a life-changer for the whole village. So, it is no surprise that people were lined-up and joyfully filling their buckets when this new system was turned on.   

The dedication ceremony was held at the church while the ribbon cutting occurred at the water towers and two of the distribution locations. The whole village was buzzing and the church was packed. I had the privilege of preaching that morning. 

The ceremony was attended by several village chiefs, representatives from the village council, and area pastors. All of the speakers honored Pastor Emmanuel and spoke very highly of his commitment to helping this village and the work that he is dong in the surroundings communities. The Italian contractor who installed the system, spoke very candidly and declared that it was Pastor Emmanuel's commitment and dedication to this project that caused it to finally succeed after overcoming many obstacles and roadblocks presented by local politicians. At one point, Emmanuel's life was actually threatened. The politics in Africa can be quite intense and spiritual warfare is definitely real, but we are called to be strong and courageous. Also highly honored were the Colangelo's, who's selfless gift made it all possible. 

However, the ultimate praise was given to God. There was no beating around the bush. God's name was lifted up and He was given the glory for this gift. Songs of praise were sung throughout the ceremony. The gospel was preached. God was glorified. Additionally, the whole event was discussed and praised for 3-hours on a local radio station. 

What a blessing to witness the work of God's mighty hand. His hand of comfort and provision. How magnificent it is to see the Body of Christ being used to quench both the spiritual and the physical thirst of man.