Schooling Fish

I love watching a large school of bait fish twist and turn in what could be labeled a highly choreographed dance. But what appears to be perfect unison, is nothing more than a close-knit group of beings reacting to change in those nearby. They are so in tuned to each other that the slightest movement of one, let’s call it a flinch, causes a like movement in those nearby. The result is a synchronized group that twists and turns simultaneously as it makes its way forward. Fish swim in schools to better protect themselves from predators. It has nothing to do with putting on a show for onlookers.

When pondered, the nature of schooling fish brings to mind my Church family. I’ve often been asked, “What do you get out of running with the church crowd?” Just like the fish, we are a group of like believers that have pulled together as we make our way through life and service to our Savior. In a perfect scenario, Church members would react just like schooling fish. When one Church member flinches or falters, the senses of the entire Body of Christ should react. Though the waters of life may be dark and danger filled, the Church continues on. It has nothing to do with show!

One of my favorite videos of schooling fish was filmed from the dark depths below the school. With each twist and turn, the school steadily rose towards the shimmer cast on the water by the sun above.  I like that!