“I just sent a $1,000 donation for Brigada Today needs.  I send this because you are a deep thinker about what is needed to complete the Great Commission. The past 14 years living in the Middle East has helped me to see that there are no shortcuts when it comes to disciple making in all people groups.  I do think there are redundancies that are slowing us down.  Moving fast with fervor and faith does not honor the Lord if we don’t coordinate and we waste resources.  Coordinating our efforts requires communication and Brigada Today addresses that need.  So I give this $1,000 to encourage you to keep up your efforts at getting the Great Commission minded workers around the world better coordinated.” This note carried with it a PayPal gift of $1000. Whoa. Sobering. And exciting all at the same time. I’m happy 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 $9406.27 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!!!