People first

After a good night's rest, our first stop was to the Life In Abundance (LIA) office in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. There we got an overview of how LIA works in partnership with communities through the local church and always in a programmatic method. A method adopted from another urban outreach ministry called the CHE (Community Health Evangelism) model. The more I learn about this model and as we had the privilege to meet and pray with many of the beneficiaries of LIA's programs, the more I get excited about its success.  And...this, in essence, was the same model used by Jesus as he was with his disciples for three years, teaching them all he could and seeking the same goal - that they too would be self-sufficient and yet connected and dependent on the Holy Spirit's leading and guiding.

Every program that LIA deploys is done at the request of the community and local church, but the more intriguing part about these programs is that every one of them has a goal to achieve their objective in three years. And, that objective...for the beneficiaries of each program to be self-sufficient at the end of those three years. John 10:10 says once again, "I have come that you may  have life, and have it more abundantly."  The key component of that abundant life if Jesus; however, LIA is very careful to not use their assistance and Jesus as a "bribe." They do not ever want it to be thought by those in the community that IF they will accept Jesus, THEN they will help. No...scripture tells us we help first, build relationship which then provides the opportunity to share Jesus:

"For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ “The King will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.’ [Matthew 25:35-40]

Everything LIA does is focused on people, just like a good leader is focused on people. Developing people and moving them to be self-sufficient and empowered. Ultimately, to know that more abundant life through Jesus, but one step at a time. I was completely flabbergasted to see that this three-year plan is working and look forward to sharing with you some of the amazing stories and people we met during our 10 days of hope in Ethiopia!