JESUS SPEAKING
“You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I tell you not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. If anyone wants to sue you and take away your tunic, let him have your cloak also. And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two. Give to everyone who asks you, and from him who wants to borrow from you do not turn away.” (Matthew 5: 38 – 42)
FAITHFUL THOUGHTS
During the first century A.D. the Roman army occupied Israel. As conquerors they were afforded certain privileges. One provision gave every Roman soldier the right to compel any Jewish citizen to carry their equipment, for up too, but not in excess of, one Roman mile. Jesus used this law to illustrate the principle of serving others, even our enemies, in abundance. Going the second mile is a uniquely Christian principle. Accomplishing the bare minimum proves little; but the genuine love of God is made manifest when we exceed the demands, requests, and expectations of others.
During our vacation this summer we stayed at our family’s cabin near the lake. The cottage had a sauna which required wood for heating. At some point I was asked to restock the bin holding the logs. I immediately set about accomplishing my task; transporting the kindling from the shed to the sauna house. I took my time; adjusting and re-stacking the logs to maximize the amount of usable space. Not only did I fill the bin, but I continued stacking after it was full. When I had reached the maximum height, given the constraints of safety and stability, my task was complete. Later on I was approached by the family member who had asked me to refill the bin. She told me that I had done the best job of restocking the wood that she had ever seen; as a matter of fact, she was so impressed that she even took a picture of it. Obviously my efforts had paid off; revealing something wonderful about God and His followers.
No matter where we are in life, there are countless opportunities to serve others in abundance. Whenever we go the ‘second mile;’ it reveals something wonderful about God’s character. Thus, if we are compelled to accomplish a task, we must go above and beyond; serving others with great zeal, enthusiasm, and affection.
“Lord Heavenly Father, fill us with Your Holy Spirit, that we might have the strength to serve others in abundance. In all that we do, may we accomplish our good works in Your Holy name; that You would receive all of the honor and glory You so rightly deserve. We love You Father, we praise You, and we thank You, and we ask and pray all of these things, according to Your will, in Jesus Christ’s name. Amen.” God bless all of you!
