Steve Poppert is used to running big projects efficiently.
So when the paint for the Miles Ahead painting project at Flankers School in Montego Bay wasn’t delivered at the start of the work day, Poppert, a busy San Diego contractor, knew he could react in either of two ways. He could blow up, or look for a blessing.
He chose the latter, and here’s the blessing he found. In the five hours that went by before the paint showed up, Poppert’s 50 or so volunteers cheerfully began to look for ways to redeem the time. Without complaint, “they started to think of plans themselves,” said Poppert, a friendly barrel-chested man who looks as he’s used to working outdoors. “Somebody came up with the idea of cleaning up the school yard. They started picking up rocks and broken concrete. Someone found a broom and began to sweep. They pulled weeds. It’s neat to see.”
The “God moment” is why he volunteers on a regular basis. “I love watching people become empowered by these situations. You have people who have never gotten into this sort of work, and it pulls them out of their comfort zone.”
He was pulled out of his comfort zone many years ago, and now regularly “gives back what the Lord has given him. God wants us to be the body together,” he said. In fact, he has a construction operation that donates time and materials for needy projects. “I see a light switch come on in them. They suddenly get it.”
April 29th, 2008 at 1:46 pm
When my wife decided to go on this mission trip, I could tell she received a calling to do so and as sit night after night looking at these pictures, read these stroies and watch the videos I am certain that this is Gods calling. I am praying everyday for the teams safety and for the blessing they are receiving as they share the love of God. Everyone there is an inspiration and messenger of of the Lords word. As moving and inspirational this mission is for the teams there, it is as much for those paraying for them. Bless You All!!! I love you Kacy.
April 30th, 2008 at 12:40 pm
Steve, we finally got the photo up! Wonderful time today seeing the results at Flankers. — Anita
May 31st, 2008 at 12:42 pm
[…] For other impressions see two blog entries on MilesAhead.tv: “Christmas in April,” and “Finding God in the Moment.” […]