a brightview Resident

Last week my wife and I met Tom Ramirez, the architect for our new church, at the construction site. Tom wanted to talk with us about colors for the siding, trim, and shingles. I’m finding out that there are more details to a building project than I could have imagined.

And we are just getting started! When we had an online meeting with the builder, it took 1 ½ hours to go over the lighting fixtures. You have sanctuary ceiling lights, sconces on the side, fellowship hall lighting, classroom lighting, exterior lighting, playground lighting, steeple lighting, and exit lighting. (Plus all the lighting I can’t think of right now)

In addition to the exterior colors and lighting, we need to select interior colors, flooring, cabinets, counter tops, and a million other things. We need to talk about sound equipment, office furniture, security systems, and playground equipment.

As I was standing in the parking lot consulting with our architect, and feeling a bit overwhelmed, I heard a familiar voice calling my name. I looked up and saw the smiling face of Mr. Ron Shamblin. Ron is the son of Don and Grace Shamblin, who were faithful members for many years. In fact, it was Grace who started this whole building idea when she asked me the question in 2016, “Pastor, have you ever considered selling the ball field?”

When I saw Ron I said, “What are you doing here?” To which he replied, “I live here!” It turns out Ron was one of the first residents to move in when the Brightview Senior Living building opened. There is something very satisfying about Ron living in the backyard of our new church. It feels like we have come full circle.

As Ron was driving away, he smiled and said, “I’ve come home.” Indeed, he has. And very shortly the rest of us will have the same opportunity. To come home to our place of worship on Telegraph Road.