9) A Personal Appeal from “Dave,” a Missions Minister in Georgia —

[Here’s an excerpt from Dave’s note, which just arrived this past week:]

“Just sent a contribution for Brigada and wanted to say thanks so much for the incredible amount of work you put into resourcing all of us out here. I don’t think it’s possible to measure the value I receive from all the information and networking found in the Brigada updates, to say nothing of the people I am able to connect with specific information or opportunities that help them find a way to further use their passion and giftedness for Kingdom purposes. I’m trusting God’s people will step up and a wave of generosity will overwhelm this ministry’s need. And in that I hope you find a sense of affirmation that what you are doing (sometimes late at night :) ) is making an eternal difference. Merry Christmas to you and yours, Dave”

Dave’s note carried with it a PayPal gift of $1000. Whoa. Sobering. And exciting all at the same time. The truth is, it indeed does cost money. This past week, I learned that a major Christian publishing house had folded. I’m thankful that, throughout all of 2011, we haven’t asked for a cent. As you know, our strategy was just to carry on quietly, with the hopes that someone would feel called this December to help us reach our financial budget goal of $17,120 for the year. This is the same goal we’ve had for the past few years  — not a penny more. Thus far, we’ve had $7711.88 come in as checks to Team Expansion and gifts just in the last couple of weeks, all of which means — we’re still way short from our budget goal. If you or someone you know could make it happen, would you give generously this week? Maybe your church would consider an end-of-year gift from one-time funds that they’ve held in case of an emergency? Either way, it’s easy to give. Just click the “Donate” link at the top of the page at brigada.org. You won’t have to register with PayPal if you don’t want to. (Just click “make a payment without logging in” if you prefer.) Or, if you prefer, just send an old-fashioned check, payable to Team Expansion to: Team Expansion (Brigada), 13711 Willow Reed Dr., Louisville, KY 40299. (Team Expansion is a 501(c)3 incorporation so for USA citizens, your checks made out to Team Expansion are tax-deductible.) Thanks to those who have suggested this cause to their local church missions teams. We appreciate you! And we appreciate Dave!!!