Designed For Moreنموونە

Murmuration Signpost #2: Divided We Fall

Division among followers of Christ is one of the greatest limiting factors to the mission of the Church. When we ignore Christ’s command to be one, all of our power is diminished.

How can we be credible ambassadors of God’s message of reconciliation if we ourselves are not reconciled?

In nature, the starlings have a fierce predator: the peregrine falcon. This hunter is the top-gun of nature. They soar high above their prey and when a single starling isolates from the flock, the falcon nose dives from above to pick off the unsuspecting victim.

In fact, research shows that the Murmuration phenomena is a defensive response to a direct predator. How do you defend against an elite predator? You come together. In the same way, the Scriptures say we are hunted by a merciless predator who is out to steal, kill and destroy (John 10:10). The enemy knows that if he can keep us divided, he can pick us off more easily. If we fight against one another, the real Kingdom-building work suffers greatly.

But God designed us for so much more. More efficiency. More beauty. More power and protection within our collective community. Like the starlings, we must come together and stay together because division means death. May we allow God to conduct our movements and murmurations as we serve the world and point others to Christ.

Seek to unite yourself with others today around the things that matter to Christ. Look for creative ways to work together with others in order to be a powerful force of compassion in your community. Choose and promote projects that are collaborative. Notice where you have become part of division, and quickly repent. Work with God and others, not against His heart for a unified church.

Prayer: 

Lord, You are the only one who can transform and unite Your Church. O God, help me lead others towards unity with the urgency the Gospel deserves. So often my judgements and criticisms are nothing more than destructive noise. Help me lead with grace. For the sake of Your Kingdom. Amen.