Water is life

Jerry and our two friends working on our well

Water is life. A statement made by both a Zambian and a Kenyan; friends whom we have met while in South Sudan.  They have come out to help us connect a pump to the borehole on the Baptist compound so that we can have running water in the house. Working for a day and a half we still were not able to get the water to flow from the well into the house, evidently the two pumps are bad. We called a man who lives in Wau.  He sold all of his in stock, but has more ordered and might get them by next week or the following – Water is life. 

It is unusual in that we have seen no permanent streams, rivers or lakes.  In much of Africa the towns are located on or very near a permanent water source. Rumbek is located in the Lakes State of South Sudan.  We can see them on the map, but they are far away.

Debbie pumping water from the borehole

For us it is a mere inconvenience.  We have 25 litre (6 ½ gallon) containers which we fill up at the local borehole (well) and put them in our car and carry them home.  We have a long drop outhouse on the property which we use (just like in the olden days!).  But for those around us who walk a half mile to a mile or more to the borehole and carry the water home it is quite a challenge.

Dinka cattle helping themselves

Water is life.  Jesus talked to the woman at the well about water. She understood the drudgery of going to the well every day and carrying water home. Jesus offered her a different kind of water – everlasting water.  Yes, here on earth, water is life.  But we know the One who offers heavenly water, the kind of water which brings everlasting life to all who come and partake.  Pray that we can help those around us recognize the offer that Christ made to the woman at the well, forgiveness of sin here on earth and everlasting life through the Living water.