In 2022, LifeSpring had the opportunity to raise funds and partner with the Global Aid Network (GAiN) to build seven water wells in Benin, West Africa. Last week, Lyndon and Patrice from GAiN shared a testimony with us about these wells, and Gabe and I also had a chance to hear more from Lyndon and Patrice about GAiN’s work over a meal.
From what I remember about the water well project, when we first considered the idea in 2021, we were moved by the simple idea of providing water for communities that did not have proper access to clean water. For us, clean water is something that we take for granted–we go to our faucet, turn the knob, and can use as much clean drinking water as we need. When thinking about communities that lacked a single accessible point from which to draw water, we were moved in our hearts to help by providing a well.
When I think about the water wells that LifeSpring has contributed to in Benin, I naturally think about the wells as simply supplying clean water. But as Lyndon and Patrice shared more with us, I realized that so much more is happening in Benin around these wells.
The wells have not only provided a source of clean water–which is amazing, in and of itself–but the wells have actually transformed entire communities, including spiritually. Patrice shared how many of the villages where these wells have been built are dominated by voodoo. Benin is actually the birthplace of voodoo. As a result, the people in these communities live in fear.
But the opportunity to build a well in such villages has opened the door for spiritual transformation. As the well is dug and installed, the gospel is shared. People who once lived in fear now know the light of Christ. In some places, voodoo shrines are coming down, and churches are being built. Entire villages are being transformed. As Patrice said, “Water is love. Water is life.” Not only are people being given access to clean water, they are also receiving the life of Christ, which is bringing light to their community.
Patrice shared specifically about one village where we’ve contributed a well, Goure Tchibi-Akeke. Before the water well project, the community was resistant and hostile to the gospel. The reason that the GAiN team was eventually allowed into this community is through the drilling of a well. Today, there is a church in the village.
Hear about it here: https://www.youtube.com/live/tMa9NCVTp8M?si=GrT4JRBFBkJXI7dR&t=3478
During the year that we raised the funds to build the water wells, our annual theme was “For His Name’s Sake.” The idea is that we were not constructing wells for praise, or to do a good deed, but for His Name’s sake–so that Jesus would be seen and given glory. As I think about what Lyndon and Patrice shared with us, I truly think this word has come to pass. In different villages across Benin, God is being given glory. The power of fear is giving way to the power of God’s love. And we have the privilege to be a part of this amazing work. Praise God!