When I graduated from college, I accepted a job offer as a resident engineer on a large construction project. My job responsibilities included day-to-day interface with contractors and observing construction progress for compliance with the project drawings. I gained a lot of knowledge and experience during the four years I was onsite and I am thankful for several mentors that helped me. However, there was a period where I worked with a senior engineer whom I was unable to classify as a mentor. I learned some great lessons from him, but the lessons were unfortunately along the line of what not to do.
I have found that most (not all) individuals are trying to do a good job in whatever profession or trade they are in. The senior engineer I worked with took extreme pleasure in finding fault in others. For example, he would permit a contractor to proceed with a particular construction task knowing from the beginning it was wrong and would not comply with the project drawings. When the contractor was substantially complete with the task, the senior engineer would point out their mistake and require them to redo their entire effort. As you can imagine, this did not result in a good working relationship. It’s important to treat others as we desire to be treated (Matthew 7:12).
Our congregation is now in the midst of a construction project. We must ensure that we are getting the finished product per our agreement or contract with the builder; occasionally it may require us to be firm on matters that require attention as work progresses. However, we also desire to maintain a good working relationship with our current builder and anyone who performs work at our facilities. We want others to see Christ in us and to know God. “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16 NKJV).
The construction superintendent for our expansion has commented several times how he appreciates the interactions and encounters he has had with the office staff, as well as many others at Karns. For that, I give thanks for you.
For the elders, Terry Clark