Up in the Sky - a Boost
“Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification” (Romans 14:19).
It’s that time of year. We hear the honking, and we can’t help but look up in the sky and wonder - not because of the accelerator challenged driver at the light but because of the…geese, you silly goose. While in Indiana I saw 40 to 50 in all in a skein flying south.
There was a glory about them, each one well aware of their own magnificence, yet as a team.
Milton Olson’s “Lessons from Geese” has no doubt been seen by you. But irrespective of how often you’ve seen this wisdom, the seasonal presence of our flying friends might again put wind in our own wings when better understood. And who doesn’t need a little lift in life? People go farther than they thought they could when others remind them, they think they can. So, take another gander with me at a few “Lessons from Geese.”
FACT #1 - As each bird flaps its wings, it creates an “uplift’ for the bird following. By flying in a “V” formation, the whole flock adds 71% greater flying range than if the bird flew alone.
LESSON ONE - F. B. Meyer said, “Everyone needs a Paul, a Barnabus, and a Timothy!” Who’s your Paul you are learning from? Who’s your balcony boy like Barnabus up there cheering you on? Who is your Timothy or Esther you might pour your life into as you live the gospel?
FACT #2 - If a goose falls out of formation, it suddenly feels the drag of flying alone and quickly gets back in formation to take advantage of “lifting power” from the bird in front of it.
LESSON TWO - If we have as much sense as a goose, we stay in formation with those who are headed where we want to go, being willing to accept help as well as give ours to others. Geese get it. Do we? The old saw says, “You can always spot the pioneers by the arrows in their back.”
FACT #3 - When the lead goose gets tired, it rotates back into the formation and another goose flies at the point position.
LESSON THREE - It pays to take turns doing the hard tasks and sharing leadership. With people, as with geese, partnership multiplies our potential and extends our reach.
FACT #4 - Geese in formation honk from behind to encourage those in front to keep their speed.
LESSON FOUR - Is your honking from behind encouraging or something else? “Keep going!” “Your sins are forgiven in Christ.” “Jesus loves you.” “We love you.” “You did that well.” Who wouldn’t fly faster with honking like that? Almost makes you want to fly south for the winter, right?!? Don’t! Get in formation and be the goose who lays the golden egg - encourage others.
