Philomène Bidimbu is a gifted rural extension worker. She has spent over 20 years with ACDI Lusekele helping Congolese villagers to discover new ways of farming and to prove for themselves the benefits. She is competent, confident and works in rural development as a vocation given by the Lord.

This week she will join the Congolese ambassador to the US as part of a panel appearing before a House of Representatives' subcommittee discussing development aid to Congo. It is an unlikely opportunity. For a short time on Wednesday she will have a chance to express the hopes of traditional farmers and the vision of committed Christians for a different Congo than we know now. The technology for change is available: new disease-resistant varieties that could double yields of key staple crops are available right now. If only the Congolese government and their international partners would mobilize funds and facility efforts to put them in the hands of farmers.

God has put Philo in this position for a reason. God has advocated from the beginning of time for health and wholeness, for help for the poor. Now Philo has her chance to give voice to that advocacy before the representatives of wealth and power. Pray Wednesday morning for her. May she shine with God's message.