Return to the M.B.Herald Vol. 38, No. 14 Home Page
Several weeks ago, while my husband and I were on a morning walk, we noticed a gaggle of geese on the pond in our backyard. As they swam, we realized that one goose had either a deformed or a broken wing, though it didn't appear to be in any pain.
When the other geese would fly off to explore new territory, the disabled goose remained either on the pond or in the park adjacent to the water. If it hadn't been for her faithful mate, who was with her constantly, she would have been left alone. It didn't matter what the other geese were doing, he demonstrated his commitment to her daily.
One morning, from our living room window, I noticed two geese running frantically from the park to the water. At first, I chuckled at the comical sight, but then I realized that a dog was threatening the disabled goose who was unable to fly. Fear of losing his own life could have motivated the mate to abandon his partner and fly to safety, but he chose to stay by her side at all costs. He ran beside her, honking loudly as if to encourage her to run and not give up. I was very relieved when they made it to safety!
Observing these geese, I have seen qualities in them that many human beings do not possess. Since this incident, I've spent time pondering what the world would be like if people displayed equal levels of commitment and unconditional love towards one another.
Love is not merely a feeling, but a choice as well. God wants us to make the choice to love one another deeply in an unconditional manner. He tells us not to look only to our own interests, but also to the interests of others (Philippians 2:4). When we live in accordance with God's will, He will bless us.
Jillian Vick lives in Savage, Minn.
Return to the M.B.Herald Vol. 38, No. 14 Home Page