Dear partners in ministry,
They looked a little tense as we discussed the last minute logistics of the trip in my office. We shared a little nervous laughter and a final prayer dedicating the voyage to the Lord. Then all three got on an airplane, flew into a war-torn country in Northeast Africa, purchased motorcycles and rode across the rough African trails into regions where most people follow another world religion that we won’t mention here for security reasons. That’s what the “Pioneer” means when we say “Pioneer Bible Translators.”
Some might think it a bit extreme to even set foot in such a difficult place, but for our PBT team, the Bibleless men and women who live in that dusty, dangerous place are the passion of our hearts because Jesus loves them and longs for them to know Him. At Pioneer Bible Translators, we want to change the world through God’s Word in every language. We fulfill the Great commission through Bible Translation. Jesus said that we would be His witnesses “to the ends of the earth,” and so we go to the unreached, Bibleless peoples of the world, intent on laying the foundation for church-planting movements by translating God’s Word into the languages of their hearts.
I am writing to invite you to build with us our first permanent corporate headquarters from which we will expand our impact by recruiting, training, caring for, and leading our international team. We are purchasing 22 acres of land not far from our current location in Dallas, Texas, and building the first 5000 square foot building. A few days ago I received word that the Mabee Foundation has issued a challenge grant that they will pay the last $136,700 if we raise the rest of the money needed. So we need $288,000 over the coming months in order to be able to build our first permanent building and own the property that will meet our long-term growth needs. This building will accelerate our mission as we reach out together to see that people get the Bible in a language they can understand in the Pacific Rim, West Africa, East Africa, the Former Soviet Union, Southeast Asia, and Asia. We know that God will provide.
Yesterday we heard that all three motorcycle missionaries are home, safe and full of stories of God’s provision and direction. This morning I read a note from a church in Missouri telling of a nine year old girl who heard about our work in Northeast Africa and began working extra jobs around the house to collect money. She brought the $6.25 she was able to earn in a Ziploc bag saying, “This is for those poor people.” I am so grateful to God for adding that little girl to our team. God has made PBT a bridge between the Church and the Bibleless, unreached peoples of the world. He brings together motorcycle missionaries and 9 year old children to accomplish His mission around the world. Would you join our team by praying for us and by financially supporting our building fund? Maybe the Lord will call someone reading this to go overseas with us. Please read the enclosed information and prayerfully consider how you can join with us to change the world through God’s Word in every language.
Your servant in Christ,
Greg Pruett
