We don't need your money, but don't stop reading there.

One thing a lot of people struggle with when it comes to missions is the whole money thing. I'd say that most missionaries don't like to ask for it and most people don't like to be asked for it.

Think your gift is too small to matter? If every member of our Facebook group decided to skip one meal to fast and pray and gave what they would have spent on the meal we would meet our goal! That is one Starbucks coffee, McDonald's Combo, or Little Caesar's Hot-N-Ready pizza. That really isn't too much to ask is it?

We aren't asking you to give to us because we need your money. We aren't asking because God needs your money. We are asking because we want giving to become your heartbeat. We are made in God's image, and He is a giver. He gave his only Son! If what we are doing doesn't line up with your passion and you don't catch our vision, that is fine.

Do you have a heart for orphans and widows? (Jesus did!) Give up a meal so you can help a widow out with her water bill. Think that the unborn and their mothers need an alternative to abortion? Donate items and/or your time to your local crisis pregnancy center. Believe in the importance of Christian media? Whatever it is- partner with others to make it a reality. Those being reached are usually the least able to give back to such important ministries. That is where we, as Christians, stand up and fill in the gap.

It is more important to us that you make giving a part of who you are so that you can be used by God. Each time we give our money, we give up a little bit more than that. We give up our selfishness, our greed, and our sense of entitlement. We are reminded that all we have is God's and that we just manage it. We remember that our lives are about worshiping our Creator and giving is one way we can do that. Over the years, Brandon and I have seen God do amazing things in and through us when we surrender ourselves and our wallets to God’s will instead of our own. Does this mean we will be blessed financially when we give? Not necessarily. I believe it does mean, however, that if our hearts are right we get to know our Creator in a new way and be blessed spiritually. So please, do not dismiss this as another person begging for your money. I am hoping for a spiritual awakening that includes the greatest physical representation of where our hearts are – the checkbook.