Written by Mia Ferow
Within Edify, it is evident that unrelenting prayer intertwined with the Glory of the Lord collides to create a tapestry of hope. During my time as an intern for the Communications and Marketing Team, Edify’s Core Value of Transformation Through Relationships has truly shaped my reality on serving others through the lens of Jesus.
During meetings with staff members to discuss and break down the seven Core Values of Edify, the ability to bridge the gaps between relationships across the world was apparent, but how does that happen? It was made clear to me that devotion to what the Lord asks of us daily is to stand with and for his people. Of the seven values, Transformation Through Relationships has left a mark on the hearts of many, including my own, that will lead to generational change to come.
“ Greater love has no one than this, that someone lays down his life for his friends.”
– John 15:13 (ESV).
The essence of Christ is well displayed in the words of John as we dissect what it means to be in relationship with others. We have each lived lives with trials, but not necessarily had people to lay their lives at the feet of Jesus for us. Edify works to be that difference, continuously empowering communities centered on Christ to foster radical love for the Lord across the nations.
As the addition of this Core Value emerged in 2022, Edify put words to an already prioritized person-first mindset that further fueled walking hand-in-hand with school proprietors through hardship. This allows them to have a friend to talk through the scars of their hearts and to remind them that they have a seat at the table. In deep relationship, eyes have opened and hearts have grown to know hope. Edify sees the work of the Father by growing in step with our partners across the world.
As an intern cohort, we have opened up and looked at the heart behind this Core Value and realized there is also importance in looking at the vein within it. How do we practice what we preach and begin to step into the lives of others? A concept so vital to the mission of Edify, and a point proven to be effective, is the vision of walking with and not for others. By simply asking school proprietors and teachers about their lives rather than the Western tendency of jumping in and fixing everything, we have grown rich in relationships.
Edify’s school partners have allowed us to know and be known. What an honor to be in an environment of unyielding devotion to the Lord, to learn, grow, and walk together through a life that throws curve balls and celebrations in the same breath. I am blessed by the work of faithful hearts, minds, and spirits within Edify, and will forever be changed for the better.
