It is my understanding that during the Roman occupation in Israel, a soldier could order a person to help carry their provisions for up to one mile. Jesus tells the people that they can do more. The first mile was an order… the second mile is from grace... giving beyond what is deserved. That is what Christ is teaching. He is teaching grace. And we need those lessons often. We see sacrifice. We see giving up things. We see inconvenience. He sees help…hope…love…support…and compassion. Go the extra mile today for someone in need! Show them grace!
We encourage you to share this blog or this link to give this verse and message to your social media friends and email list. Ask if they have ever heard this verse or ‘going the extra mile’. Ask if they have ever done more than what was asked just to be helpful to someone. Find out how that made them feel. Let them know about your experiences either in giving or receiving that ‘extra mile gift’. Tell them why this was such a new lesson that Jesus was teaching. Let them know that it is still a great lesson for all of us to learn. Continue to Take Time For God’s Word at 5:41 am or pm and as you see a mile-marker on the highway, then think of this verse. 5:41 may be a verse that you recall with the image of ‘5-for-1’ as a ratio. That you give 5 for every 1 that is requested… that’s going even beyond the ‘extra-mile’. It makes you think. It helps you be aware. It puts the needs of others in perspective. It opens you up to be ‘grace’ to those in need around you. What a great way to live and to give!
We always begin our monthly prayer cycle with prayers for our military women and men… both active service and those who have already served. They have gone the ‘extra mile’ and beyond! That is how much they love our country and love their fellow citizens. They are willing to die in service to us all! Support them, their families, and any special needs which they may have as a result of their service. Give extra support to those homeless veterans who are struggling. Be that blessing to them as they have all been a great blessing to us all. THANK YOU for your service! Pass it on by going the ‘extra mile’ and even more!
