Flying in Formation
Live life, then, with a due sense of responsibility, not as men who do not know the meaning and purpose of life but as those who do… And “fit in with” each other, because of your common reverence for Christ.
Ephesians 5:15, 21 (Phillips)
As I write this, F-16 fighter planes are screaming over our house. No, we’re not under attack! The Air Force Thunderbirds are in town for an air show and we’re privileged to live near the airport.
The pilots are practicing, getting their bearings for the performances to come in the next days. Some soar high and others dip low. To hear the roar build as they get nearer and nearer and then to see them streak by is awesome.
At times they do so as individuals, probably the “solo pilots” getting ready for their role. And then there are those moments when they pass by in formation, so close together that they appear to be one.
“Wow!” I say to my wife. “Talk about impressive!”
With every pass, I have the same question: How can they fly so close together and not lose control?
Following the Leader
One obvious reason is humility. Trusting that the flight commander is traveling at precisely the right speed and altitude, the wing pilots surrender any desire to switch directions or question their leader’s path.
None of them would ever consider going rogue to do their own thing or to seek their own glory. Instead they submit to one another. Or in the paraphrase noted above, they fit in with one another.
They get in formation and closely follow the leader. The result? A more powerful team and a more impressive performance.
It’s no different with followers of Christ. Although we may have our times of “soloing,” the greater impact is made when we fly in formation.
Each person realizes their individual value, yet for the common good and greater goal, there are times when we need to work together, giving up the right to “do my thing” in order for the team to “do our thing.”
There are times when we need to work together, giving up the right to “do my thing” in order for the team to “do our thing.”
As impressive as the Thunderbirds are, it’s no less striking when Jesus’ disciples, gifted as individuals, give up their individual glory to fly in formation. The times they appear to be one.
And there’s a simple word for what that looks like: “Wow!”
As impressive as the Thunderbirds are, it’s no less striking when Jesus’ disciples, gifted as individuals, give up their individual glory to fly in formation. The times they appear to be one.
PRAYER
Lord, while we in fact respond to your invitation to follow as individuals, it’s clear that we’re called to fly as a team. Help me to remember that. And to give up my independence and desire to advance self for the greater good and greater glory.
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