While working in the garden this week, I was surprised by several waves of geese flying high above me on their way to their northern territory. They’d drawn my attention with their enthusiastic honking to one another as they flew in formation through the blue sky.
Geese are one of God’s wonders and an example of the value of teamwork. They fly in that V-formation because it makes it easier for them to move their bulky bodies through the sky on the many miles they must fly. They take turns on the hard job at the point of the V to share the work and constantly honk encouragement to one another.
I don’t understand the language of geese, but I think it’s a safe guess that there is no one at the back of the flock flinging criticism at the leaders. It would serve no purpose. Flying as a cooperative group is necessary to reach their destination.
The lesson for us is fairly obvious, but in these hypercritical days of thin skins and constant outrage, it may bear repeating.
Cooperation, appreciation, and encouragement carry us further than nitpicking, criticism, and fault-finding.
This applies to general society, but even more so to the body of Christ.
10 He died for us so that whether we are alert or asleep we will come to life together with him. 11 Therefore encourage one another and build up each other, just as you are in fact doing.12 Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who labor among you and preside over you in the Lord and admonish you,
1 Thessalonians 5:10-12
Power Walking with Jonna 