“Faith in Action: Rachel’s Mission for Clean Water”

Writer: Hadley Thompson
Date: April 15, 2024

Dear Church Family,
Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! As we step into a new season, I am excited to share an inspiring story of faith, perseverance, and the power of God’s divine guidance. This month, we highlight the incredible journey of Rachel, a chemist from right here in Flint, Michigan, whose passion for clean water transformed lives and communities.

A Vision for Change
Rachel had always been deeply troubled by the water crisis in Flint. As a chemist, she knew that science could offer a solution, but she also knew that change would require persistence, faith, and the right resources. After countless hours in her small lab, she developed a cutting-edge water filtration system designed to remove contaminants and make water safe for consumption.

However, having an invention and bringing it to the world are two different things. Rachel lacked the funding and connections to scale her system. It was a discouraging time, but she clung to the promises of Scripture:

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” – Proverbs 3:5

Rachel refused to let obstacles define her journey. Instead, she leaned into prayer, trusting that God would open doors.

Breakthroughs and Battles
With determination, Rachel reached out to local leaders and organizations. She attended town meetings, spoke to city officials, and even knocked on doors to share her vision. Her unwavering faith and persistence paid off—she secured funding to launch a pilot program, bringing her filtration system to families in need.

As word spread, national media picked up her story. Rachel’s work was making a real impact, and it seemed like nothing could stop her.

But then came opposition. A large corporate competitor, threatened by her success, attempted to shut her down. They claimed her methods were flawed and sought to undermine her credibility. It was a moment that tested her resolve.

“Let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap if we do not give up.” – Galatians 6:9

Rachel could have given in to fear, but instead, she chose to stand firm in her calling. She reached out to nonprofits and faith-based organizations, forging powerful partnerships that allowed her to continue her work. Together, they ensured that thousands of people had access to clean water, regardless of the opposition.

An Unexpected Turn of Events
Then, something incredible happened. The very corporation that once sought to shut her down came back—not with another attack, but with an offer. They saw the effectiveness of her system and, rather than fighting against her, they wanted her expertise to improve their own filtration processes. What had once been a battle had turned into a partnership.

God’s ways are higher than our ways. He takes what the enemy meant for harm and turns it for good.

Lessons for Us All
Rachel’s story is a testament to what happens when we trust in God’s plan, remain steadfast in doing good, and refuse to give up in the face of adversity. Each of us has a calling—whether it’s in ministry, business, community service, or our own homes. And like Rachel, we may face setbacks, opposition, and moments of doubt. But we serve a faithful God who honors perseverance and faith.

I encourage each of you to consider: What mission has God placed on your heart? Are you allowing fear or doubt to hold you back? Let Rachel’s story be a reminder that in due season, we will reap if we do not give up.

If you’re looking for ways to learn more about water crises and how you can help, I recommend visiting Water.org, a great resource dedicated to providing clean water solutions worldwide.

Church family, let us continue to trust in the Lord, to press forward in faith, and to be vessels of His love and transformation in the world. May we never grow weary in doing good!

Blessings, Hadley Thompson