| Good morning everyone, Our theme for this month: “Sanctification” Our Bible verse for today: “If then there is any encouragement in Christ, if any consolation of love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, make my joy complete by thinking the same way, having the same love, united in spirit, intent on purpose.” Philippians 2:1-2 (CSB) Our thought for today: “A little more about those crazy people” This morning, I want to continue thinking about those crazy people the group “Casting Crowns” sang about and which we considered in yesterday’s devotional. I’m talking of course, about you and me and the people of our churches and our Christian friends. Actually, I referred to us as an odd cast of characters, it was Casting Crowns who called us “crazy people.” Did you listen to the song? I hope you did. If so, I’m sure it brought a smile to your face. At Oak Hill Baptist Church I have sometimes teased our people that we’re like the patrons in what has come to be called “The Star Wars Bar”. We were introduced to it in the first Star Wars movie. It was an intergalactic bar whose patrons were odd characters from across the galaxy. There was a green one-eyed man and a purple one with two heads and multiple tentacles. There were creatures large and small and of every conceivable type. But although they were so different and odd-looking, somehow, they all seemed to get along. I remind our folks that we’re like that. Funny-looking and odd people with very different personalities and interests and yet somehow, we all get along. A good church is like that. It’s a fun place to be – not to mention encouraging, uplifting, and spiritually nurturing. This is what Paul was describing in Philippians 2:1-2. He was reminding us that although we are different in many ways, we share the common bond of having the Holy Spirit living in our hearts and therefore, we are all united in Christ and united in His mission of building the kingdom of God on earth. What’s also implicit in the meaning of that passage is Christian community. The church is a community of brothers and sisters, members of the family of God. God has brought us together in these little groups known as local churches so that we have a strong community of fellow believers to support us, help us, and protect us. We are better and safer together than alone. If you are not experiencing Christ in a good Christian community, you are missing a major part of the activity of God in your life. You are also missing an important element of your spiritual growth. So much of our progressive sanctification takes place in and because of our involvement in the community of believers. If you are not involved in such a community, you are missing out on much of what God has for you. Yes, in many respects we are like that Star Wars bar, or like a bunch of crazy people, or an odd cast of characters – but in a good way, a fun way! You don’t have to be perfect to be one of us. In fact, if you were perfect, you wouldn’t fit in. Check us out and see. Chances are you’re one of those crazy people too and you’ll feel right at home. God bless, Pastor Jim (If you like what you’re reading in these daily devotionals, and if you would like more content from Oak Hill Baptist Church, join us on Sundays at 10:00, in-person if you are nearby or, if you are geographically distant or if you just can’t make it, online at www.YouTube.com/@oakhillbaptistcrossville |
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Oak Hill Baptist Church 
Great song. Thanks for sharing. I love Casting Crowns. Blessings, pastor Jim. Keep up the good work.