Follow The Leader
“When he (the shepherd) has brought out all his own, he goes ahead of them, and the sheep follow him because they know his voice.” John 10:4
They come almost every morning…always in a group, sometimes as many as thirty. I think Canadian geese are among God’s most beautiful creations. The farm pond in front of our house must provide a good stop over for them. Sometimes, if I’m lucky, I get to see them come in…always in a “V”…their cackling gives their approach away. And in the same way, they let me know when they are about to leave. They may stay for a day or maybe an hour. But when they decide to leave, one circle and they’re back in their “V” again.
I remember one particular day when I was outside and saw them in the distance. I was doing some sort of chore, but praying at the same time. As they came in their “V” formation, they turned and began to fly away…I figured they saw me and maybe they did. But suddenly way off in the distance they turned and came back to the pond, passing only a few feet over my head as they landed. I was reminded that day how God’s promises sometimes almost seem almost lost in the distance only to return again. The geese are a blessing in my life…a reminded of God’s presence in my world.
I must admit, however, that I do have questions about this “V” they fly in. It seems only one, the front of the “V”, really knows where the group is going. As they fly up together, they assume their positions. They don’t jockey for the lead position…they simply take their place. Its as if they have total trust in their leader. As a coach who constantly preaches “the team comes first” to young men, it’s a good reminder of how important being a follower is…as long as you have a good leader.
Do you think those geese ever question that leader. “Where in the world is he taking us this time!” or “Why are we stopping at that pond? I don’t even like that pond…its got scum on it” or “Do we have to go now?” or “Why can’t I lead sometimes?” I could on, but you got the picture. I guess what I’m asking is “Are Canadian geese like us?”
I guess not. They seem to have it figured out. They take their place in the “V” and follow their leader. As Christians, it is a blessing to know we have a leader we can follow. We can have full assurance in who Christ is and where He will lead us. To each of us He says, “Come…follow me”. In Christ, there is direction in our lives and a good supply of His love to change the world.
So the next time you see a flock of geese, be reminded of our rightful place as Christians…those who follow Christ. Thanks be to God for that opportunity.
Love in Christ,
Billy