Life after Africa

So here I am, sitting in a coffee shop in Grand Rapids. It's the coldest day of the year (not that such a thing would be hard, being only 16 days into it).
It's been a week since I got back, and I've been busier than ever. My classes started on Monday and it's been a solid amount of work. I have to say, it would have been pretty nice to have a week or so to debrief upon our return. Alas, life moves on and I was thrown back into it at full pace. Unfortunately, I haven't been able to just sit down and ponder/think/pray about my experiences. I think, finally, I will be able to set aside some time for that this weekend.

While I was over in Mali, I saw a need that couldn't wait around for help. If you've been keeping up with my posts, you already know what I'm talking about. As soon as I got back I jumped on it. I really can't explain how amazing the last week has been, even within the busyness. The feedback that I have gotten for my efforts has been so incredibly encouraging.

You can find everything in better detail (along with pictures) on the website that I set up:
www.JessicasHouse.info

On the website, it details the ministry that I am referring to, as well as the need.

So here is what's happening:

On either the 6th or 7th of February (more specifics to come) we are holding a benefit concert to raise support for this ministry. The concert will have a few local bands to enjoy, and a great opportunity to fellowship (hang out) with each other.

Later in February, we are having an event called "Walking to a Brighter Future". The walk will be roughly 2 and a half weeks and will be from the east coast of Michigan to the west coast (Marine City to Holland). I will be walking the entire distance (Lord willing), and I am strongly encouraging anyone to join me for segments of the journey. I also encourage anyone walking with me to raise support from their church/friends/family to be donated to Jessica's House.
I am asking anyone to help support me by pledging $10/mile for however miles you wish to sponsor (the entire walk is 200 miles). All the proceeds will go directly to Jessica's House ministry.
Yes... it is February... and yes, it will be cold! The need is urgent and I want to show everyone my 100% devotion to this cause. I will do whatever it takes to raise this money.
God moves in incredible ways when we begin to take care of his children. I have seen this at camp and I have seen this in Bamako. He is doing incredible things, and I find pure joy in helping Him... whatever the cost!

More info to come...

Side rant (for what it's worth):
People ask me "what is the spiritual aspect of this ministry?". I assure you that there is a spiritual aspect to the ministry, as I talk about on the website. I am also excited to see what God will lead the ministry to do once these initial needs have been met! Never-the-less I am often discouraged when this is the first thing that people ask. There was a guy named Maslow that said something about the importance of meeting one's physical needs BEFORE it is even possible to meet any of their other needs (Maslow's hierarchy of needs). Jesus said something about feeding the hungry too. He even acted on it (His ministry wasn't all about feeding hungry people, but as evident in feeding the 5000, He knew quite well that meeting their physical needs was a must before trying to meet their spiritual needs!). Don't you think that if we meet people's physical needs, God will do amazing things?
Maybe we ought to step back, and refocus on loving people by meeting their physical needs, rather than only worrying about cramming Bible jargon into their ears. I mean... I'm all about preaching the Gospel, but people aren't going to be receptive to it if you haven't shown them that you care.
I apologize if you disagree, let's still be brothers and sisters and carry on.

More deep thoughts on my experiences to come (maybe once i get the chance to sit down and think about it myself!).