The difference is Christ

I’ve encountered different strategies and models for how to end generational poverty. But the difference is Christ. It changes your perspective.

I got my first degree in accounting. The Lord has opened the door for me to go and do a master’s degree from Moody Bible Institute in Chicago and a PhD from Lancaster Bible College. I could have gone on to work at KPMG or PwC and run away from Naguru.

But at my graduation day, the Compassion team said, “This is not the time to run from that monster called poverty.” I just remember saying, “Okay, God. I will not run away.” You’ll be shocked how many former graduates of Compassion are back working in their communities making a difference.

Richmond outside a local church

 

The church is on the move in Africa

About five years ago, local authorities wanted to erase our community in Nakawa because of all the drugs and crime. Despite community protests, they went ahead. We lost our church building and the congregation scattered.

It was then that the church’s pastor told me, “Look, God is calling you to lead this church.” Not great timing! But you can’t say no to God. We were very strangely surprised when people began joining us, even though we were meeting under a tree. But God’s church is always on the move.

The Lord opened an incredible flood of generosity. A woman who lives in a makeshift structure pledged 25,000 Uganda Shillings, around £5. People brought shirts, saucepans, plates and a radio to sell. With the money we set up New Life Church. It’s probably the fastest-growing Baptist church in the country, now.

We’re planting about three churches every year. We send out 150 people, 50 each to plant churches in different places. The Lord is just bringing people and just showing them his love. We are really excited about this new season for the ministry where people are stepping up and just doing that.

When we share our resources, knowledge and skills, the Church is an unstoppable force for good.

The local church is powerful

You may have heard of the Asbury revival that’s happening in the United States. But something is happening right now in Jinja, Uganda. We had more than 500 people bringing their witchcraft articles to be burned. It’s God moving in a new way.

Richmond Wandera

I also believe that we are entering a new dispensation where the missional call to reach the world is shifting to the Global South. What kind of missionaries will we send? As founder of the Pastors Discipleship Network, I view that as part of my assignment.

But while I look ahead, I can’t help but think, I shouldn’t be here, except for one individual sponsor who said, “Lord, if you can use anything use me.” I pray that we, as God’s agents, will look more intently into His face and see what is His will. Whatever it is and however big it is, let’s not be afraid. Let the world not kick down or kill our dreams. Let’s just say yes.


Richmond shared his testimony with the Spring Harvest team on their recent visit to see Compassion’s work in Uganda. To find out more about Compassion’s partnership with Spring Harvest, click here.

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