As Simple As Water

On Friday we found out one of our care points was out of water. They had not been able to cook for a couple of days and we couldn’t understand why. With the language barrier, it was hard to get a reason why. We sent a translator today and found the simple problem. The tank was empty and it was a long distance to walk to get water from the river. I made a call and the tank was filled on Monday. In the mean time I took the Go-Go with four of her containers down to the river bed where there was a small well where we were able to get water for the day.

I wish many problems in life were as simple to fix as this one. We can get water, but the problem couldn’t be solved until we were able to communicate and find out the reason why they weren’t cooking. Communication was the key. So many problems could be worked through, avoided or solved if we simply communicate better. We don’t say anything because we think it might hurt. We hold back because we’re afraid of how others will respond, and the problem gets worse. This could have become a big problem, kids going without food, all because we didn’t know they were out of water.

I am reminded of Matthew 5:23-24 “If you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother, then come and offer your gift.” If the lines of communication stay open, we can work through many issues without them becoming big problems.