Most people are familiar with the phrase, “extra mile.” We use it describe someone who has exceeded expectations. Going the extra mile was encouraged by Jesus in Matthew 5:41. He said, “Whoever forces you to go one mile, go with him two.”
He was addressing the idea of giving of oneself even when it is not required. His listeners were familiar with being forced to go one mile.
When Jesus said this, the rule of the Roman empire was prevalent and imposing. The law stated that if a Roman soldier commanded someone to carry his armor for him, the subject was required to carry it for one mile. At the end of the required distance, the person had done their duty. Can you imagine what the soldier would have thought if the person just kept on walking for another mile … an extra mile.
Jesus was talking about a love that goes beyond laws and requirements. He was talking about the thing that should set Christians apart from the rest of the world. Going the extra mile.
Many of the men, women and children that come to our shelters have been beaten down by the streets. The trauma that accompanies homelessness is intense. We have the opportunity and the privilege to show them something different even though they don’t expect it. Our team of employees at the shelters spend time with them listening to their stories and helping where they can.
One man I talked to recently put it this way, “They were there for me and cared about me when no one else did.” For over a year, our case manager worked to help him set goals and move forward until he acquired all his paperwork and his own apartment. All because someone went the extra mile.
Jesus went on to ask in Matthew 5, “Where is the reward in only loving those who love you?” We could expand on that and ask, “Do we only help those who can help us.” “Do we only serve when it is convenient or comfortable.” Where is the reward in that?
We were commanded by our Savior to be servants in the world. We can either do that because we have to or because we want to. Those we serve will be able to tell the difference. Are you willing to go the extra mile?
