Have you ever witnessed a large flock of Canada Geese flying overhead? It takes one's breath away. Their perfectly synchronized flight pattern leaves even non-believers asking themselves, "What kind of higher power could orchestrate such a wonder?"

As these geese encourage one another with their loud, welcoming calls, other geese appear out of nowhere, responding eagerly to the invitation of fellowship. They are very social by nature and choose never to be alone unless they are mourning the loss of a mate. Even after that short period of grace, they will return to their flock. Are they knit together in love, the way the apostle Paul spoke of believers in his letter to the Colossians? "That their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, to reach all the riches of full assurance of understanding and the knowledge of God's mystery, which is Christ." (Colossians 2:2 ESV)

When Christians are not part of the fellowship in a church body, they will find themselves out of sync and feeling isolated. According to George Gallup Jr., Americans are among the loneliest people in the world. How is that possible when we live in a society with technology right at our fingertips, enabling us to connect with 385 million other people? Could it be that, although connected, we are not knit together in love?

Due to the updraft that their wings create, Canada Geese can fly 71 percent farther in their V-formation than if they flew alone. They do not pause for a moment when being invited or called to join their team. They respond immediately in blind faith. While such trust is a mystery to most of us, the encouragement and fellowship of the flock are clear. The real secret is how much confidence they have in each other.

Perhaps when a church is out of sync, the members should examine themselves and consider re-grouping to follow the example of these unwavering geese. Are they knit together in love? "If in the fellowship of service, I seek to attach a friend to myself, so that others are caused to feel unwanted; if my friendships do not draw others deeper in, but are ungenerous (to myself, for myself), then I know nothing of Calvary love." – Amy Carmichael.

Imagine the welcoming blanket that every church could knit if they began with one stitch at a time, knit together in love!

Romans 12:11 – Never be lacking in zeal, but keep Your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. (NIV)

Prayer: Dear Father, sustain our passion for serving You. Help us to encourage each other and bring You glory in all that we do. Amen.

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About the author:

Lois Macdonald <loismacs5@gmail.com>
Oshawa, Ontario, Canada
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