There is an advantage and a disadvantage when it comes to applying the herd principle. When I visited an Alpaca Farm in New Jersey (with several UCBC churchmates), the farmer told us that Alpacas go together as a herd. Meaning, being isolated is stressful and unnatural for them. It is similar to a sheep. Both are highly social animals. Jokingly, the farmer said if you are to buy an Alpaca, make sure to take three of them because one is not enough.
The Advantage
Indeed, the benefits of being “together as one”–or herd principle–are evident somehow in Ecclesiastes 4:9-12. In one of my blog articles, Togetherness x Threefold Cord (read this first for better context), I concluded that “Christologically, Jesus is with us (union)—He is the Immanuel— the embodiment of togetherness. Speaking about the Church, we are “with” each one. We are the visible sign of genuine ‘togetherness.'”
A flock is stronger than a single sheep or an alpaca. Likewise, a people-power movement can move and cause revolution and change almost instantaneously. Ecclesiastically speaking, Christians are called to be in one mind, one faith, one Lord (Ephesians 4:3-6). The banner called “Better Together” had been used by many churches to emphasize unity. To be in harmony with each other is not just beneficial but also edifying and God-glorifying (Romans 15:5).
The herd principle in the concept of unity, togetherness, and peace is indeed biblical.
The Disadvantage
Even though the herd principle is somehow biblical in the specific forms stated above, this concept is also likened to the “mob or crowd” mentality. One good illustration of this is the narrative of the Lemming dilemma. These lemmings would run as a group and jump together from the edge of a cliff to meet their final breath.
In today’s society, the herd principle is evident, especially in the digital culture. Followers, or fanatics, would run quickly to the stores or app stores when their social media influencers tell them to buy their limited merch item. In the extreme sense, this can cause a cultic-like category that can be dangerous to oneself.
This herd principle offers their followers blind faith.
What now?
Nowadays, in this networked society, everyone yearns for belongingness, authentic connection, and secured validation. The call to be critical in applying the herd principle is a must-do for Christian communities. Even so, it can also offer us inclusivity and unity in diversified places wherever we are. Discernment and spiritual wisdom are essential in matters of finding an authentic platform as an avenue for personal and communal growth.
The best thing I have learned from my trip to that Alpaca farm. The alpacas remained calm, secure, and sensitive in their surroundings. They are living their moment in a slow-paced time in this fast-moving world they live in. With these in mind, let us be like an Alpaca.
Featured Image: At Bluebird Alpaca Farm in New Jersey on August 6, 2023
John&Paul's Reflections 