I was attacked by a goose recently. A pair of geese with five goslings took up residence at the pond by my home.  I was intrigued. I stood on the sidewalk watching the goose family while the gander watched me. Papa goose decided I didn’t belong there watching. Maybe he sensed I am fond of goose as Christmas dinner. In any case, he suddenly took flight straight toward me. I backed away, and papa went past me. I’ve since learned that geese are very protective of their young and get aggressive in chasing off strange intruders.

The geese show a trait present in many animals including humans. We protect our own against those who don’t belong and who might be a threat. The problem with this powerful defense mechanism is that can also work against us. It keeps us from approaching people who might be beneficial to us, but who appear different in some way. Think about how little kids react to a doctor in a white gown and mask.

Our natural instincts sometimes get in our way. This was a problem for early Christians. For example, it took effort to regard people who spoke Greek instead of Aramaic as brothers and sisters. So Jesus taught: “Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another” (John 13:34).

We have to be aware that our natural tendency to be suspicious of those who are different can be a problem. Our goal is to be like Christ and not like a goose. Love one another.

Read 1 John 4:7 and remember: God loves YOU unconditionally.

Wayne