July 22nd, 2023: Being in Community

We rarely see a goose traveling alone; they always travel in groups called a "wedge." Their strong sense of community teaches us valuable lessons about cohesiveness and teamwork. Let's explore a few lessons we can draw from observing them:

1. Working as a team: Geese demonstrate excellent teamwork through their V-shaped flying formation. This formation reduces air resistance and conserves energy, as they take turns leading. Similarly, in church settings, burnout can be a significant issue when a majority of ministry responsibilities fall on just 20% of the members. To avoid burnout, it's essential for pastors to share leadership and encourage active participation from all members.

2. Communication: Geese communicate intensively during their flights, using honks to encourage each other and maintain formation. Likewise, effective communication in a community should be honest, encouraging, and focused on accountability and constructive correction. Open and clear communication helps build trust and strengthens the bonds among community members.

3. Support and perseverance: When a goose falls out of formation, others will fly alongside it, offering support and encouragement until it can rejoin the group. Similarly, churches should refrain from giving up on members who have fallen away. Instead, they should offer support, understanding, and encouragement, helping them find their way back into the community.

"Brothers and sisters, we urge you to warn those who are disorderly. Comfort the discouraged. Help the weak. Be patient with everyone." - 1 Thessalonians 5: 14