In terms of a step-by-step process, here's a breakdown of a dove's descent: The dove begins its descent by adjusting the position of its wings, fully extending them and tilting them slightly upwards to increase drag. It spreads its tail feathers to further enhance drag and control its speed.

The reason is simple; a dove in the middle of a descent is vulnerable. There is no reverse in their flight pattern, so they need to know that the area is safe before they commit to a landing. If this pericope is any indication, it appears that seeing and watching and looking are important to the Gospel of John.

How does a dove descend? It descends differently than other birds. Perhaps we could say it hovers, floats downward, rather than swooping down to kill its prey as a an eagle, or circling overhead like a vulture, or flitting about recklessly like a bat.

Amen. Consequently, let us see what God the Holy Spirit (1) is teaching us through descending “like a dove.” A dove has nine main feathers on each of the two wings utilized to lift and propel it forward. It also has five main tail feathers that act as a rudder to guide the dove in flight.