Flying Lessons

“Then the shepherds told everyone what had happened…The shepherds went back to their fields and flocks, glorifying and praising God for what the angels had told them and because they had seen the child…” (Luke 2:16-20, NLT)

In a mighty effort, the geese flap their wings and fly in a “V” formation while honking at the same time. Scientists have learned that as each one flaps their wings, they create an uplifting draft for the next bird. That enables each bird to fly with the flock and ensures that no bird is left behind. Apparently, by flying in a V formation, the geese increase their flying range by over 70 % than if each goose was flying by itself. Flying this way reduces drag and increases a smoother flight through the air. When the lead bird get weary, it drops back into the back and another bird takes it place facing the headwinds.

Imagine how each of us can take turns facing headwinds for one another this Christmas season. It is God’s intention that we “fly” together, encourage one another, and together communicate the glorious news of our savior’s birth – Immanuel, God with us! That is exactly how the shepherds responded after they had met Jesus, the Savior (Luke 2:17-20)

The word for “told” in Luke 2:17 is the Greek word from which we get our word for phone or telephone. The word is clear: If you and I are true followers of Jesus our Savior, our response is to imitate the shepherds, spread the word together as a church family. Like all healthy churches, we need to fly in “V” formation.

In flying, attitude is vital. When I was flying with my son, David, the attitude of the plane was adjusted for take-off. In a plane, “attitude” is the angle of the plane’s nose in relation to the horizon. If the attitude is set too high, the plane would stall and crash. If it is set too low, the plane would never gain altitude. For FFAC to “fly” successfully for God, its people like you and I need to adjust our attitude – not too high (pride) or too low (greed).

Instead, let’s set our sights on the level of the Savior and tell those you meet: God has come to us – He has given us His Son, Jesus to be our Savior. (Colossians 3:1)