Trivia and Truth

Many readers expressed enjoyment in the lessons God renders through nature. So, I’m sharing this sequel to “Loner or Lost” with more lessons from Canada geese.

I’ll start with a trivia fact; the Canada goose is often referred to by the misnomer “Canadian goose” or “geese”. According to the National Audubon Society, Canada goose is the correct name when not using the scientific name Branta canadensis.

Next, let’s check out some truths we can learn through fun facts about the Canada goose. Canada geese begin looking for a mate when they are about two years old and choose a monogamous partner for life.

Nature illustrates the truth Jesus taught: “he who created them in the beginning made them male and female, . . . for this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two will become one flesh . . . Therefore, what God has joined together, let no one separate” (Matthew 19:4-6, CSB). Unfortunately, our culture ignores this for many selfish and frivolous reasons. We would be wise to learn from the geese.

During the first year, the goslings stay with their parents; they can walk immediately after hatching and learn to swim within 24 hours. Parents work together to protect and teach their young. When they’re seen in a line, usually, one parent is in front and the other at the back.

Likewise, God instructs us through scripture to protect and teach our offspring: “So commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these words of mine. . . Teach them to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are on the road, when you are going to bed and when you are getting up” (Deuteronomy 11:18-19, GNT).

Energy-efficient flight is the reason geese fly in a V-formation. Each bird flies slightly higher than the bird in front of it to get some aerodynamic lift. Flocks do not have one specified leader. They take turns flying in the front because that position doesn’t get the uplift and uses more energy. When the front bird gets tired, it moves to the back and another takes the lead until it’s tired. They work together in unity so that none gets too exhausted or left behind. The geese honk during flight to communicate information, encourage each other, and stay together.

Unity is crucial for Christians. Jesus prayed for the disciples and those coming after them to unite. Scripture urges us to aid each other: “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful; and let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works” (Hebrews 10:23-24, RSV).

Dear Reader, are there traits you can glean from the geese? Is there someone in the flock getting weary; someone you can encourage today?

Prayer:
Dear Father God, forgive us for not always listening. Holy Spirit, help us to give full attention to the quiet voice of the Creator, and thank you for teaching us through all the natural world. You speak to us in so many ways. Please show us who needs relief so that the flock remains cohesive. LORD, our Lord, how magnificent is your name throughout the earth! Amen.

References:
Richard-Craven, Maya. “10 Fun Facts About the Canada Goose.” Audubon, National Audubon Society, 14 Dec. 2022,
     www.audubon.org/news/10-fun-facts-about-canada-goose. Accessed 13 Feb. 2023.

“Canada Goose.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 12 Feb. 2023,
    www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canada_goose. Accessed 13 Feb. 2023.

Lederer, Roger. “Canada Geese.” Ornithology,
     www.ornithology.com/canada-geese. Accessed 13 Feb. 2023.

Sparks, Robert. “Why do Geese Honk While Migrating?” Optics Mag, 23 Jan. 2023,
    www.opticsmag.com/why-do-geese-honk-while-migrating. Accessed 13 Feb. 2023.

Image of geese flying over water by Kev from Pixabay
Photo of Canada geese and goslings by Megs Harrison from Pexels.