The Great Commission

“GO and make taught ones of all nations, baptizing them in the Name of the Father, Son and the Holy Spirit, TEACHING them to guard ALL that I have commanded you. And see, I am with you always, until the end of the age. Amen”

Matthew 28:19-20

“The Great Commission”

commission:  The authority to perform certain assigned tasks or duties.

As we look all around this world we find tragedy, unjustice and evil spreading like cancer through the veins of our society, of the world.  Many shake their fists at God and ask, “Where was God?” Better yet, “He could have done something about this, something to stop this evil, but… He didn’t.”

In the beginning, God created a perfect world, gave life to man and gave man dominion over the world and all creation.

“And God said, ‘Let US make man in Our image, according to Our likeness, and let them rule over the fish of the sea, birds of the heavens, livestock and all the creeping creatures that creep on earth.” ~Genesis 1:26

Mankind chose to give the gift away because it wasn’t enough.  Mankind believed the lie of the enemy that God was holding out on mankind, not giving mankind His best and, through free will, mankind chose to know both good AND evil instead of just sticking with the good.

“LORD God commanded man, “Eat of EVERY tree of garden, but DON’T eat of tree of knowledge of good and evil, for in the day you do, you shall certainly die (spiritual death/connection with Him)” ~Genesis 2:17

Serpent/devil said to woman, “For God knows that in the day you eat of it your eyes will be opened and you shall be like god, knowing good and evil.  Woman saw that the tree was good for food and apleasant to the eyes, and desirable to MAKE one WISE and she ate.” ~Genesis 3:5-6

Since this decision, we have come to live in a fallen world.  In fact, mankind might seem to be spiraling downward at a much faster pace.  Man continues to decide to worship gods that suck the life out of the life you were meant to have in Him through false worship of titles, money, material things, and man. We’ve accepted these gods and kicked Him out as “The God” of our lives.

The question is NOT, “Where is God?” BUT, “Where are God’s people?”

“For we are His workmanship, created in Jesus/Yahshua Messiah, for good works, which God has prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” ~Ephesians 2:10

We are called His ambassadors, witnesses and to be a light unto a fallen and dark world.

“Therefore, we are ambassadors for Messiah.” 2 Corinthians 5:20

ambassador: a person who acts as a representative or a promoter of specified activity

We are to be His hands, feet and mouthpiece of truth and healing in love.  We are called to establish the kingdom of heaven here on earth through the hope that lives within us.

As we ponder the horror and questions of a tragedy at the hands of a sick individual, God is NOT to blame.  Sick is a loose term here because it means unwell, diseased or rather dis-eased (without peace). We use God as this scapegoat when things go wrong, but we fail to take accountability for our actions, our choices that have been continuing without Him from the very beginning. We have decided He is not enough, but we have also said, “It’s Your fault that this happened, or didn’t happen.”

All the while, where are we in life’s big picture? Where are we in the business of changing our culture that begins first within us and our homes? Where are we in our part of the world and what are we doing with our time and resources?

The steady tragedies of the world are bigger than gun control, they’re bigger than a lust for sex and sexual trades, they’re bigger than murders of children and people through genocide, they’re bigger than senseless crimes.  The tragedies of the world reflect the true and utter brokenness of a world that has fallen AWAY from God.  So, what fixes the brokenness?

“The saving GIFT of God has appeared to all men, instructing us to renounce all wickedness, worldly lusts, to live sensibly, righteously and reverently in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and glory of our great God and Savior who gave Himself for us, to REDEEM us from all lawlessness and to cleanse for Himself a people, His own possession, ardent for good works.” ~Titus 2:11-14

Get about kingdom business.  You have been commissioned by Him.  The true power of love, hope, peace, joy and kindness lives and exists in YOU!  Now, GO!

In His Love,

Laurie

 

The Pilgrim Way

“God teach me lessons for living so that I can stay the course. 

Give me insight so that I can do what You tell me, my whole life –

one long obedient response.

Guide me down the road of Your commandments.

Give me a bent for Your words of wisdom and NOT for piling up loot.

Divert my eyes from toys and trinkets, invigorate me on the PILGRIM WAY.

Affirm Your promises to me.

Deflect the harsh words of my critics.”

Psalm 119:33-40 (The Message Bible)

The 1^st Thanksgiving in our America was an attitude of gratefulness for freedom of country, freedom of worship, a freedom of faith and values for families.  Looking around, it’s not hard to see that material things have replaced the important things that many sacrificed their lives for in coming to this great land of America.

Our society today has become one of material over meaningful.  It is a rare thing to witness the sacrifice of material for meaningful, yet these were the roots this nation was founded upon.  Over the years, these roots have been chopped at, making this once strong, God-fearing and revering nation, very surface-minded in humanism instead of deep-rooted in God.

As I share this, I am reminded of several tall pine trees that are near our home.  They are beautiful and seem strong on the outside, but it has been shared with us that should a major storm hit our home, they would be the first to topple over.  Pine trees are not known to have deep roots.  Their roots extend about 5-6 feet in the ground and then taper off rather quickly.  In a storm this would make them top-heavy, causing it to topple.  Likewise, a nation that has surface roots and is not deeply rooted will be found lacking strength.

Each year many look to “Black Friday” and the mad rushes of sales on items they desire for the holiday season.  This year it was moved up into Thanksgiving Day, and many took advantage of the sales.  I believe the enemy stole the day away by diverting our eyes on toys and trinkets, piling up loot and forsaking the pilgrim way.  Wait! I thought we associate pilgrims with Thanksgiving? What is a pilgrim anyway?

Pilgrim:  a person who journeys to a sacred place for religious purposes.

Everyone’s stay here is temporary even the believer, it’s the pilgrim way.  However, the believer’s journey is for the eternal.  Somewhere along the line we have replaced the eternal with the temporary and believed that surface things were more important than faith, freedom and family.

As we all face uncertainty in today’s economy, let us be reminded that true treasure is eternal.  Beauty fades, electronics are soon outdated, toys and fashion become fads, BUT a person with a heart and faith of value is eternally priceless.

We don’t have to succumb to the pressures of society, that’s the beauty of free-will – we get to choose, and we are each responsible for the end result of our decisions.  Choose instead to build lasting treasures within your children and families that will endure the uncertain times ahead.  Build treasures of hope, perseverance, love, compassion, kindness, wisdom, but most of all a faith that withstands any storm.  Build a faith that when the storms of life blow hard through tragedy, criticism, and insecurity – you won’t topple over, you’ll be found to be standing strong and secure in God.

You are loved,

Laurie

Life Lessons from a Dog Bite

“A righteous man is cautious in friendship”

Proverbs 12:26

Summer is almost over for many including the PopTribe and it has certainly been an eventful one thus far, but not without important lessons in self-esteem and relationships.  These lessons although traumatic in nature, brought great understanding and respect for relationships with God, humans and animals.

Growing up my husband and I were always animal lovers and we’re more partial to dogs.  However, we wanted to wait until our youngest was at an age where we felt comfortable introducing him to four-legged siblings in the home.  We first added, Rue, a stray mix who is very gentle and obedient in nature and great with children.   Rue helped to break the fear of animals in our youngest Pops.  She was an unplanned rescue from the local pound, and possibly ending her precious and loving nature through euthanasia.  Prior to going on vacation, Rue, was immediately loved and trained by all the Pops.  She was the first PopPaw added to our tribe. During this time, we were in the process of adopting our first pick, made into our second addition, Parker, a Rottweiler from a reputable rescue organization.

While in the Florida Keys visiting family for an extended period of time, our 10 year old and 8 year old were swimming in the canal between the home we were staying in and their grandfather’s home.  A neighbor’s dog from across the street to the vacant neighbor’s home beside grandpa and was pacing between both properties.  At the sight of the dog, and witnessing their grandfather pet the dog, our children naturally got out of the water to do the same.  Tenacious Pops, our 10 year old, knelt in front of the dog, close to her face, and pet her head.  The dog in turn, bit my son in his upper lip and he was given nine stitches.  The dog owners did not have any vaccinations on the dog and the dog was said to have not been kid-friendly.

Life Lessons  We Learned

• Lesson #1:  Take Responsibility and Forgive Immediately. 

When all was said and done, our son held no ill will against the owners or the animal. He was more concerned over the animal and not having her put down.  He apologized for not being more careful, and told the owners that had no ill will towards their dog.

• Lesson #2:  Face your fears. Life must go on and with God we can overcome.

When we asked if he would fear us adopting  Parker, the rescue Rottie, he said; “No. It is understandable that I might be hesitant with dogs because of what happened, but I can’t let fear control me.  I need to face it so I can get over it and go on with life. I’m not going to let this ruin our vacation.”

• Lesson #3:  Beauty is on the inside. Be secure in who you are.

When facing the public on our outings on vacation and thereafter, many gave looks of shock and horror to his lip/face area.  What was his response?  He went on with life as usual, greeted everyone with a smile, and continued making numerous friends.  The bite and scar do not define him.  He is defined and accepted by God alone.

• Lesson #4:  Practice Caution in Friendship

Following this incident, the golden rule for strangers animals/pets became clear to all of our Pops, “Always ask the owner if it is safe to pet their dog/animal.”   We have shared with the Pops that just like human beings might feel threatened by having another person’s face in theirs; dogs/animals can feel that way too.  Always exercise caution in friendship with animals for their safety and yours.

“According to the 2011-2012 APPA National Pet Owners Survey, 62% of U.S. households own a pet, which equates to 72.9 millions homes; 46.3 million homes own dogs.” (APPA, 2012)  Our local news station, WCNC did a report and an article about dog bites that reinforces our understanding and awareness about pet and strange dog awareness.  (WCNC.com)

• “If a dog is chasing you, don’t run.

• When you have a dog that is running, stand still, act like a tree, pretend that dog is not even there, don’t move, don’t look at them, just wait for that dog to run away on its own.

• When that doesn’t work, Conner said you need to get in the turtle position.

• When you get knocked down to the ground and now suddenly you’re on the ground and that dog is still jumping on you then what you need to do is act like a turtle.  Go into a shell.

• Dog lovers often don’t realize that you should never pet the top of a dogs head.  Instead, reach under the chin and never make eye contact with a strange or aggressive dog.

• If an aggressive dog approaches you, you want to remain calm.  Slowly back away and give the dog no direct eye contact.  Any quick movements or direct eye contact is going to direct the dog to become more aggressive, so you just want to remain calm and back away.”

When we got home we added, Parker, our Rottweiler to the tribe.  He is a big dog and the Pop 5 and PopPaws have formed a beautiful relationship of mutual respect and understanding in human to animal relationships.  I share our story as a word of admonishment to all animal lovers and pet owners alike.  Take the time to be cautious in friendship, and develop a mutual respect and understanding of each other.

Finally, take away the positive from the trials in life and choose to overcome!

Your friend,

Laurie

References

Industry Statistics & Trends for Pet Ownership, America Pet Products Association, 2012.

http://www.americanpetproducts.org/press_industrytrends.asp

Boudin, Michelle.  Avoiding Attack:  Dog Bites All Too Frequent . 1 Aug. 2012.  News Channel 36,  Charlotte. http://www.wcnc.com/news/local/Avoiding-Attck-164607906.html

Destitute OR “Destined To” In Him?

When we face trials in life, it is very common that we try and resolve them in our flesh.  We might think that we have the answers, or we act on impulse, we act out of fear.  We may try to use our resources to solve the issue, but what happens when we “flesh it out” and we get nowhere?

The dictionary definition for destitute is:

destitute – utterly lacking in means or resources

At first “hearing” of the word, it might register to one as “hopeless” and we’re conditioned in this world that hopeless equals weakness.  Well, the reality is that this is true.  We are hopeless without Him because He IS our hope. We are weak because without Him we can do nothing, and in our weakness HE is made strong.

We fail to realize that until we run the “hamster wheel” of solutions, God is the only one in control, not us.  He can finally be God and show Himself faithful when we move out of the way and quit trying to be “god” in our own lives.  

Destitute is therefore the understanding of the believer that says, “God, I can’t do this without You.  I don’t want to and I trust You with my life.” 

You are loved, 

Laurie

FREE & Low-Cost Things to Do In Your Area for Summer & Family Fun!

Hi, Everyone!

If you did not know already, I head up a local homeschool group in our area. I was making weekly updates on our site today with FREE and low-cost summer and family things to do in our area for our members when I came across many sites that could benefit many families nationwide.

I was excited to sign the Pop 5 up for FREE bowling and skating in our area, as well, as get some great dates on cool $1 summer movies at Regal Cinemas across the nation.  I also found some sites for kids meal deals or “kids eat free.”  Now, who wouldn’t want to save a little and have great fun doing it?

Therefore, I have compiled a list of websites for you to browse and check things out in your area.

ACTIVITIES WITH KIDS

• http://www.familydaysout.com (look up indoor and outdoor activities in your area by state)
• A guide to fun activities for the family, kids events, restaurants for kids and families and more in your local area. Find events, outdoor activities, entertainment, parties, schools, and other fun family.  http://gocitykids.parentsconnect.com/

• Breezy Picnic Grounds Waterslides offers fun and relaxation in Douglas, MA with special packages for youth groups, birthdays, and business outings.  http://breezysummer.com/
• Resources and information about bicycling with children. Includes tips for long-term family travel. http://www.familyonbikes.org/index.htm
• UNITED KINGDOM:  http://www.dayoutwiththekids.co.uk/

NATIONWIDE FREE SUMMER ACTIVITIES

• Movies:  www.regmovies.com/summermovieexpress/ - $1 Summer Movies for 9 weeks throughout the summer
• Bowling:  www.freebowling.amf.com
• Skating:  www.kidsskatefree.com
• More than 101 travel games, Fun road trip activities, and Printable Games to play in the car when traveling with kids. http://www.momsminivan.com/

DINING WITH KIDS

• http://www.kidseat4free.com
• http://www.kidsmealdeals.com
• http://www.mykidseatfree.com
• http://www.outtoeatwithkids.com

 SAFETY

• Child ID customized temporary safety tattoos perfect for family travel, vacation and activities with kids, SafetyTat keeps parents and children connected. SafetyTat reads, If Lost Please Call, and does the talking for a lost child. http://www.safetytat.com/

BY STATE

ANY STATE

• http://www.attractions.uptake.com

FLORIDA

• http://www.fortlauderdaleonthecheap.com/cheap-fun-with-kids/

• http://www.miamiflonthecheap.com/cheap-fun-with-kids/

ILLINOIS

• http://www.chicagokids.com/

MASSACHUSETTS

• http://www.bostoncentral.com/

NEW JERSEY

• http://www.funnj.com/

• http://www.gokidsnj.com/

NORTH CAROLINA

• http://www.charlotteonthecheap.com/

TEXAS

• http://www.kids-houston.com/

VERMONT

• http://www.findandgoseek.net/

PLEASE feel free to post any additional site you may have found in your areas so that others can be blessed by them too!

Have an amazing and fun summer with your family!

Your friend,

Laurie

Article Written on Cancer Part of My Testimony

Mother defied medical odds after cervical cancer

Posted by DW Editor on May 25, 2012 in Faith | 0 Comment

by Sarah Grano

http://denverncweekly.com/faith/2012/05/mother-defied-medical-odds-after-cervical-cancer/

After surviving cervical cancer, Laurie Popvich thought she’d never have any more kids. She shows off her family, from left, mother Yolanda Granados; Koen, Elly, Tal, Laurie; Aniyah and Brielle. (Sarah Grano/DW photo)

Doctors told Laurie Popovich she had no chance of having more children after a battle with cervical cancer.

She went on to beat cancer, give birth to four more children and devote her life to family and God.

“When I tell the story, I tear up because it’s a reminder of what God has done, and I see that in my children,” Popovich said.

The Lincolnton resident founded Seeds of Promise, a Denver-based home-schooling group.

Her life looks very different from when she was diagnosed with cervical cancer at age 22, a single mother to 2-year-old daughter, Aniyah.

She lived in Florida, but was constantly traveling for her job in telecommunications. She was climbing the corporate ladder.

“I was the one who went in to land the deals,” she said.

Her mother, Yolanda Granados, took care of her daughter when she was away.

“We didn’t really have a relationship because I was always gone,” Popovich said of her early life with her daughter.

The cancer diagnosis caused a “big flip” in her life. Popovich left the corporate world, started attending an open-Bible church, rebuilt her relationship with her daughter and started reconnecting with her ex-husband.

Popovich married Lex when she was 18 and he was 22. They had not planned to have children quickly.

“I was on birth control so our first daughter was that 1 percent,” Popovich said. “You have this idea of going to school and traveling, and that doesn’t happen.”

She and her husband divorced, but, started seeing each other again the year their divorce was finalized. At first, Popovich just wanted him to know about the church where she and their daughter were spending all their time.

He ended up becoming a member. Their daughter was overjoyed with their reunion. Aniyah said it gave her a “happiest girl in the world feeling. I felt like I had my family back.”

Popovich said she let go of her anger at her ex-husband following her cancer diagnosis, which allowed them to reconnect.

“That we ever got back together at all was a miracle in itself,” Popovich said.

When they remarried, Popovich said she began praying for God to “open my womb” again, and Aniyah began praying for a brother or sister. Their prayers were answered.

“I was shocked,” Popovich said. “Even now, I get goose bumps talking about it.”

She says there is no medical explanation for what happened, but her four youngest children are proof that she had been healed.

Popovich’s mother has a simple explanation.

“It’s a miracle,” Granados said.

Aniyah agrees.

“I think about it frequently,” Aniyah said. “She’s like a walking miracle in my life.”

Popovich is a stay-at-home mom who home-schools her five children, who range in age from 3 to 17. Her husband, Lex, is a police officer in Gastonia.

Popovich wants her children to know her, know her story and above all else, know God.

“I’m always telling them the importance of having a relationship with God,” she said. “I know what life was without Him.”

___________________________________

Whatever trial you face, be it with your health, relationships or finances – God can make a message of Light, Love and Hope out of your mess.  He did with me and continues to do so. I had been given 6 months to live when I got this diagnosis, here I am 15 years and 5 children later. He is my Redeemer, Rock and Savior in all things.

My Pops, all of them (including Mr. Pop) are an inspiration to me to keep living and enjoying them and life.  I’m blessed in my mess because I submitted my life to God.  The blessings of God are for “whosoever believe in Him.”  To God be the glory because without Him, I shouldn’t even be here.  May His love and miracles tarry on in you!

You are dearly and wholly loved in Him,

Laurie

Remember When…

“But you shall remember that you were a slave in Egypt and that your God redeemed you from there.”

~ Deuteronomy 24:18 ~

“Egypt” signifies life before God, when you lived according to the flesh; according to your desires, slaves of the enemy.  The Bible says you cannot serve two masters.  When we were in our flesh, we were slaves to sin and the enemy, but in the spirit, we are slaves to God and His good will.  Therefore, “Egypt” is a life oppressed by the enemy to do his will with no lasting fruit for you. 

In life we all deal with “sandpaper” people in the world; irritable, selfish, worldly, etc.  BUT God calls us to a higher standard in dealing with all people whether they’re “sandpaper believers” or they’re not.  More often than not, believers are known for what we’re against; abortion, divorce, adultery, drugs, alcoholism,  sexual/verbal/mental abuse, judgmentalism against types of music, styles, people, etc.  However, we should be known for what we’re for; love, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness, and self-control. 

Personally, I have walked through all of the above named “against” behaviors, and as a believer it helps me to connect with those who may be struggling with these same issues.  God redeemed my life and blessed me with everlasting fruit like He has done with all of us as I’m sure each of you has a redemption story.  However, we are not to forget that we were once the same as those who are without Him, as well as, those who believe in Him.  Your past mess can be turned into a message to uplift those who walk similar roads.

Therefore, should you come across “sandpaper” people, don’t rub against them in judgement, bitterness, etc.  Show them the love and power of God through you that they may desire to be redeemed and set free too!

Have a Happy and Safe Memorial Day!

You are loved,

Laurie

SMILE! It Does the Body Good… Pass It On!

“Greet every saint in Christ Jesus…”
~Philippians 4:21~

Smiles are underestimated in their power and value.  In the Bible we are admonished to exhort, edify, encourage, and think highly of others over ourselves.   Our “reservations” or choice to not involve ourselves much with people puts Him at a disadvantage for spreading His love and health benefits to ourselves and others.

Smiles are simple, but pack a powerful punch of positive fruit mentally, physically, spiritually and emotionally for ourselves and others.  Here are some proven benefits of a smile:

• Smiles are attractive.  I imagine our Savior walked around with a welcoming and loving smile to most people.  By doing this, He was able to spread His love unto others.
• Smiles are contagious.  Let’s face it, a person who smiles, brightens up a room spreading joy, cheer and happiness.
• Smiles relieve stress.  Stress is easily seen in our faces. A smile reduces stress and prevents one from looking tired, overwhelmed, etc.
• Smiles boost your immune system.  By smiling you improve the functioning of your immune system because you are more relaxed.
• Smiles lower blood pressure.
• Smiles release endorphins, natural pain killers and seratonin – all of which contribute to the “feel good” mood, and don’t you just want to keep feeling good?

So, next time you find yourself in a ” ‘tude-mood,” smile.  Next time you see another in a ” ‘tude-mood,” smile.  God died so we can enjoy life, and a simple smile goes a long way for you and for many.  It cost nothing and it’s just what the body and the BODY needs…so, SMILE!

Throwing a BIG SMILE your way,

Laurie  =)

The “Final Stretch”

“And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose.”

~Romans 8:28~

The “final stretch”, a time where we wrap things up, they come to a close, a chapter is ending and a new one is on the horizon.  Looking back at one’s life, one may see the “final stretch” at different times.  The “final stretch” is the point where you realize you have just passed through the difficult part, experienced the major challenges of that season in time of your life, you pulled through the thick of it.

I believe I speak for all when I say that each year brings its challenges, and this year was no different.  For the Popovich’s, it has been that kind of year.  A year where you begin with a thought process and a plan for how things will go in marriage, parenting, homeschooling, finances, health, family, house projects, etc. and challenges rear their ugly heads in ways you didn’t see coming. 

Like a tremor before an earthquake, when the challenge first appears, its uneasiness is quickly felt and can knock you off your feet, so to speak.  Going through the challenge is no “cake walk”, but as the famous poet, Robert Frost, once said, “the only way out is through.”  This is true for the believer because when God brings us to it, it’s because we are ready to go through it.  For most, life naturally settles into “comfort zones”, but life is not meant to be lived in comfort zones for the believer.  Life is the refining into a better person in and through Him.  Refinement is living a “no comfort zone” life, and learning to adapt to the changes and maintain our peace in Him regardless of the chaos in our circumstances.  A successful “through” the thick of the challenge strengthens our resolve in Him and brings us hope for the future because He is our hope and our future (Jeremiah 29:11).

The “final stretch” where we look back and see how far we have come; how God met us in our darkness and we were able to see the “Light” at the end of the tunnel.  This is the faith and strength we need to push through to the end, to overcome.  It is in the overcoming that the old fears and obstacles in the challenge die out, and through the second wind, new paths can begin.  We become strengthened and we are able to strengthen and encourage others when they meet their challenge in their season in life. 

In the end, we see the “big picture”.  We survived.  We’re more faith filled.  We’re more resilient.  We’re wiser.  We’re closer to Him.  Therefore, His good will has been accomplished and is continuing to be accomplished in us.   Although we may experience trials in our season in life, as time goes on, as we meet and push through many “throughs” in life; God takes the good, the bad and the ugly and works it all for our good.

In order to mature in Him, we must endure in Him!

“Perseverance is not a long race; it is many short races one after another.”  ~Walter Elliott

You are loved,

Laurie

5 Ways to Change Your Mental Picture

5 Ways to Change Your Mental Picture.