Extra Mile
We often talk about going the extra mile as a sign of someone's commitment to a project or effort, saying it is a good thing, an indication the person is dedicated. But where does that expression come from?
'You have heard that it was said, "An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth." But I say to you, Do not resist an evildoer. But if anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn the other also; and if anyone wants to sue you and take your coat, give your cloak as well; and if anyone forces you to go one mile, go also the second mile. Give to everyone who begs from you, and do not refuse anyone who wants to borrow from you. 'You have heard that it was said, "You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy." But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be children of your Father in heaven; for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the righteous and on the unrighteous. For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? And if you greet only your brothers and sisters, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect. - Matthew 5:38-48
It takes very little effort to offer good for good, while it takes a lot to repay bad with good.
Jesus says we should be like our Father in heaven who loves us without conditions. Whether we are good or bad, He is for us and wants us to know He loves us completely.
Why is it so hard for us to be like Him?
Perhaps we think being God-like is about judging others. That seems to be something we are good at. We decide who is good and who is bad, and we justify harshness for the bad and goodness for the good.
But God doesn't judge us the way we judge each other. He goes the extra mile and waits for us to catch up with Him.
We can interpret Jesus' instructions here in a variety of ways. We could see it as weakness or as strength, depending on our perspective. Some see the extra mile as pushing the limit, giving more than is asked to gain the upper hand, while others see it as a cowardly or fearful act.
No matter how you perceive the actions, the message is to be the one who decides. Give not what is asked, but what you choose, and make that more than anyone would expect.
That is a sign of love, and it is how God treats us.
So, why not be like God?
More to come...