Three Advantages

The Right Reverend G. Porter Taylor, bishop of Western North Carolina, recently delivered a sermon which neatly characterized the three advantages of being a committed Christian [as against a member of a Christian club, commonly called called a church].
First, we’re never alone. Ever. We’re part of a loving, caring group of folks who comprise the body of Christ. All are sinners, from different walks of life, all ages, but “bonded together with ties that cannot be broken.” Mutual support and encouragement is not the exception—it’s the rule.
Next, we’re never static—can never relax in the same place spiritually. We’re always on a journey—always. There’s an old biological aphorism that “The only evidence of life is growth,” and that goes double for the spiritual life.
Lastly, we’re immersed in a sea of grace, surrounded by the love and mercy of your Lord and Savior. This is real. It is not a function of who we are, but of who God is, and there’s no escaping it. There is, however, the danger of ignoring it, or—worse—denying it. It brings freedom from our most malignant malady, fear, and will lead to the deep joy of belonging.
Sounds like a pretty good deal—who in his right mind could refuse?