V–Formation  

“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
John 13:34-35 (NIV) 

We can learn much from animals, for example, there is the diligence of the ant and the faithfulness of a dog. Something that has always intrigued me is the amazing way geese fly in their characteristic V-formation. Scientists have determined that the V-shaped formation geese use when migrating serves two important purposes:

First, it conserves their energy. Each bird flies slightly above the bird in front, resulting in a reduction of wind resistance. The birds take turns being in the front, falling back when they get tired. In this way, the geese can fly for a long time before they must stop for rest.

The second benefit is that it is easy to keep track of every bird in the group. Flying in formation may assist with the communication and coordination within the group. This is why fighter pilots often use the V-formation as it improves the fuel efficiency of their aircraft and the visual contact they can have with each other.

As the geese instinctively know, we need to learn to work together in order to maximize our achievements and look out for one another in order to support those who are flagging.

The New Testament knows nothing of solitary Christianity, in fact it is replete with references about how we are to love, support and encourage one another. One such example is found in Romans 12: “Love must be sincere…Be devoted to one another in love. Honour one another above yourselves…Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality…Live in harmony with one another…” (Verses 9-10, 13, 16)

Why not take some time to look up the other ‘one another’ passages in the New Testament—they provide a useful study as to how we can demonstrate love in action. If the church is to move forward in love and unity, take the gospel great distances and soar to incredible heights, it has to be V shaped behind Christ. So let’s fly in formation together showing the world that we are indeed His disciples.

Prayer
Father, thank you for placing us in a flock of believers. Help us to fly together with one another as we follow our Master wherever He may lead.
Amen

Study by Barry Robinson

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About the Author:
Barry Robinson is an Elder in and pastoral worker in the Greater London area, particularly the Camberwell and North London congregations of the Worldwide Church of God UK.

Local Congregation:
Worldwide Church of God Camberwell
The Salvation Army Hall
105 Lomond Grove
Camberwell
LONDON
SE5 7HN

Meeting Time:
Saturday 11 am

Local Congregational Contact:
Barry Robinson
Email:  barry_robinson@wcg.org.uk