The sun was just beginning to rise, casting swirling blue shadows over the lake, where a family of ducks floated peacefully. I paused for a moment and watched how they moved in perfect harmony, gliding across the water in a straight line. It hit me then how they really had their ducks in a row—no joke! And in that stillness, I felt a gentle whisper tugging at my heart, saying, “Get your ducks in a row.”
As I began to journal it became clear what I needed to focus on and my mind kept drifting back to that beautiful scene on the lake. I knew God was using those ducks to share something special with me.
They seemed so graceful and carefree, barely making a ripple on the surface. To anyone watching, it looked like they were just enjoying an easy swim. But beneath the surface, those little feet were paddling hard, tirelessly pushing them forward. It’s such a powerful reminder that our lives might look effortless from the outside, but there’s always a lot going on underneath, helping us move forward in our lives.
Years ago, we found ourselves jolted awake one night by the urgent, desperate honking of a lone goose. As we stumbled outside with a flashlight, seeking the source of the ruckus, our hearts sank. There he was—a solitary figure it was a goose, and not another goose was to be found.
Upon closer inspection, we noticed his battered foot and a twisted beak, clear signs of a predator’s attack, and we couldn’t help but feel a surge of compassion wash over us.
In that moment, we decided to welcome this weary wanderer into our home. We affectionately named him Goosey Goose, and he quickly became a part of our family. He shared snuggles with our dogs and much to our delight, he relished their dog food. Our garage became his sanctuary, a secure space where he could find solace from the outside world. Each morning he would burst forth onto the lake, splashing joyfully across the water, his spirit healing along with his foot. It was both exhilarating and terrifying to watch him dart beneath the dock; I often found myself holding my breath, praying he wouldn’t misjudge his timing and hurt himself again.
Goosey was more than a pet; he was a vibrant, spirited presence in our lives. Each evening, I lifted prayers, asking the Lord to help him fly and find a flock of his own once again. Then that miraculous day came: he spread his wings wide and took to the skies, leaving us with echoes of his honking and cherished memories that Goosey Goose gave to our hearts.
Every spring, we eagerly anticipated the arrival of new life. The sight of fluffy goslings swimming closely behind their mother, with their watchful father guarding them, was a beautiful reminder of our journeys, where we seek direction and protection.
Watching these little ones grow was a simple yet profound blessing, intertwining our paths with God’s creation.
I remember these moments when I felt a stirring deep within me, a call to recognize the journeys we all undertake. The achievements we admire in others often come at a cost. Just as those goslings gain confidence before they venture out on their own, we too must remember that following Jesus requires commitment and unwavering perseverance. As He said in Matthew 16:24, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.”
We tend to overlook the prayers and effort behind someone’s achievements. Im sure that the path to where they stand today was paved with diligence, devotion, and grace.
Here in Kentucky, we often witness the enchanting sight of geese flying in their characteristic V-formation over the Lake. It’s not just a beautiful image; there’s wisdom in their flight. This formation helps conserve energy and reminds me that just like those goslings swimming in a row we too find strength and support by following closely to the Lord. Staying in that sweet spot behind Him allows us to save energy and keep moving forward on our journey.
Isn’t that what our Great Shepherd does for us? He leads us along the right path, guarding us from all sides, clearing our way, and lightening our burdens as we flow and surrender to the Holy Spirit’s help.
As I watched the geese glide across the water with grace, I was filled with awe at the lessons they imparted. In their simplicity, I saw reflections of our spiritual journeys. Just as ducklings learn to navigate the water in formation, we too can find our way by holding onto God’s Word and trusting His guidance as we move forward in faith.
