Flying in Formation

Bible Reading: Ephesians 4:1-6

“Well, if that’s the way you’re going to be, I’ll just find someone else to do my science project with!” Will turned and walked away from Thatcher and Carlos before they had a chance to respond.

At dinnertime, Will was still angry. “Thatcher and Carlos won’t listen to me,” he said. “They want to change the whole science project. I don’t care what they say. I like the way I planned it.”

Dad frowned. “Sounds like you’re having trouble flying in formation.”

“Huh?” asked Will. “What are you talking about?”

“Remember when we saw the Navy’s flying team perform at the air show last week? How far apart were those six jets?”

“They were really close!” said Will. “I think the announcer said they sometimes were within three feet of each other.” He remembered the thrill of watching the shiny blue and yellow jets. “When the leader moved in a certain direction, they all moved that way. If they didn’t, they’d be in big trouble.”

“Right” said Dad. “Flying in formation like that takes real teamwork! But doing a good job on any group project requires teamwork—and that includes your science project. You need to work together as a team.”

“But they won’t listen to me!” said Will.

“Well, they should listen to your ideas,” said Dad, “but you should also listen to theirs. Have you done that? Have you really thought about whose ideas would work the best?”

Will sighed. “I guess not,” he admitted. “I’d better call Carlos and Thatcher and see if they’ll still let me work with them.”

“While we’re on the subject of teamwork,” Mom said, “It’s our church’s day to help at the food pantry this Saturday, and Pastor Jeffries sent out an email asking for more volunteers to sign up. I think we should go as a family to help out.”

“Well—okay,” said Will. “I was hoping to go with some friends to see a movie that’s coming out that day, but I guess I can do that another time.”

Dad smiled. “Sounds like you’re getting better at teamwork already, Will,” he said. “And God’s team is the most important team of all. Christians need to work together for His glory.” – Diane Hesselberg

How About You?

Do you have a hard time working as part of a team? Do you get upset when others don’t agree with your ideas? Remember that God wants Christians to work together in unity. Ephesians 4:2 says to “bear with one another in love.” You’re not doing that if you always insist on having your own way. Share your ideas, but also listen to the suggestions of other people.

Today’s Key Verse: Psalm 133:1 (NIV) How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!

Today’s Key Thought:

Work in unity with others