Where Clean Water Meets Living Water with Aaron Griggs

Jan 29, 2026

Ask episode

Chapters

Transcript

Episode notes

For most of us, water is rarely something we think about. It’s as close as the kitchen sink, the refrigerator door, or the bottle beside us at work. But for millions of people around the world, clean water remains out of reach—and the consequences stretch far beyond thirst.

Jesus once said, “And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones… that person will certainly not lose their reward” (Matthew 10:42). On today’s episode of Faith & Finance, Aaron Griggs of Cross International shows us just how literal—and transformative—that cup of water can be.

Globally, 2.2 billion people still lack access to safe drinking water. In places like Zambia, Malawi, and Uganda, the crisis is especially severe. Women and children often walk long distances every day to gather water from open pits shared with animals. The water is contaminated, illness is common, and the time lost reinforces generational poverty. Girls miss school, mothers miss work, and entire communities struggle to flourish.

This quarter, FaithFi is partnering with Cross International, a Christ-centered humanitarian ministry working alongside local churches and Christian leaders to meet urgent needs and create sustainable change. Their work in Sub-Saharan Africa is showing what can happen when clean water meets the living water of the gospel.

After a well is installed in a village, physical health improves quickly—but the long-term effects are even more remarkable. Hours once spent fetching water are freed for school, work, farming, and small business. Women gain economic opportunity. Children gain education. And through Cross International’s ministry partners, families are introduced to Jesus, often receiving their first Bibles in their own language.

One woman in Zambia described this transformation with simple gratitude:

“I never knew that I would be where I am now. My family is healthier, and my children are in school. God has blessed us.”

Another woman, Grace, shared how access to water restored not only her family but also her church. For years, her congregation met under a tree because there wasn’t enough water for construction. After a new well was installed, the church was rebuilt, children joined their parents in worship, and an entire community experienced renewed dignity and hope. Her favorite Scripture says it best:

“Whoever believes in me… rivers of living water will flow from within them.” — John 7:38

Cross International’s work meets physical needs, but always in the name of Christ. Water is a doorway—opening opportunities for flourishing today and pointing to eternal life in Him. That’s why FaithFi is partnering with Cross International this quarter to serve 250 children across Malawi, Zambia, and Uganda, providing not only clean water but also food, education, and the hope of the gospel.

For just $62, one child receives these essential resources for a year. Every gift supports not just a child, but often an entire family and community, moving them toward long-term stability and lasting hope.

Clean water changes everything—it restores dignity, strengthens families, and reflects the life-giving love of Christ.

To learn more or to join us in this effort, visit: FaithFi.com/Cross.

On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:

I have a question about the ‘Trump Accounts’ for newborns. What dates are they eligible for, and are there any pros or cons?
I just turned 65, and I’m still working with employer health coverage. Do I need to enroll in Medicare Part A or Part B now, or can I wait?
While stationed at Fort Polk and Fort Hood, I bought insurance policies that would pay off my houses if something happened to me. I can’t find the paperwork anymore. How do I track down which insurers those policies were with?

Resources Mentioned:

Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.