Many Christians are doing their best to make a difference. We know our faith compels us to action, and we’re ready to get to work. But when we read the news, we’re confronted with stories of Christians who got it wrong. They wanted to help, but in their zeal they did more harm than good. The narratives related to charity can be equally confusing, and it’s hard to tell if our gifts are helping or hurting.

In episode 25 of the Simply 127 podcast, 127 Worldwide partner Odongo Geoffrey shares about his childhood experiences and how he came to know Jesus as a teenager. Woven throughout the stories of his past are repeated episodes of heartbreak as well as evidence of God’s compassion towards Geoffrey’s suffering.

Throughout my walk with Christ, I’ve participated in several mission trips, but it wasn’t until I served alongside 127 Worldwide and Swahiba Youth Networks that I began to consider the idea of “mutual edification.”

What’s your story of learning to live out James 1:27? Most of us can think back to a particular sermon, conversation, or person who challenged us to think about our role as Christians in caring for the vulnerable-- the impetus that drove us into justice work. For the children at Tumaini Children’s Home in rural Kenya, that person is 127 Worldwide partner Rose Bugusu.

Peter Abungu is a 127 Worldwide partner who directs Swahiba Networks in the Kibera slums of Nairobi, Kenya. In episode 12 of the Simply 127 podcast, Peter speaks on the importance of GO Teams and shares some insight on his experience working with Americans.