Musk-ox are amazing animals. When faced with danger they form a protective circle around the weak and vulnerable of the herd. They place those who need protection and care at the centre of the circle while the strong form an outer ring, through which their predators cannot pass. Their strength searches out and surrounds the needy.
However, over time the vulnerable Musk-ox do not stay in the centre of the circle, nor do the strong forever remain on the outside. There is growth and movement from the centre to the outer circle and vice-versa. There is room made for the weak to become strong and find their place in the outer circle. Likewise, there is freedom for the strong receive the care available in the centre.
This is the exact opposite of how our society treats the vulnerable and oppressed. In our world, strength is more often used to accumulate status, power, or privilege. The vulnerable are left on the margins while the strong gather at the centre. The Musk-ox show us another way—a better way—they show us the way God’s Kingdom.