PRAYING FOR WILLINGNESS TO GO THE EXTRA MILE

We’ve been speaking recently about topics like dealing with pressure and being cheerful in whatever we face.  Today we want to take things one step further as we consider the principle of "going the extra mile." This principle encourages us to live from a generous heart and to take action that blesses. 

In Jesus’ day there was a much-hated custom that a soldier in the occupying army could enforce. An ordinary citizen could be ordered to carry a soldier’s heavy load for one mile.  This was inconvenient, humiliating, and disruptive for the person.  Jesus used this custom to help His followers understand the practice of going beyond what is required and living in a way that benefits and supports others, even when our own interests must be set aside. 

If a soldier demands that you carry his gear for a mile, carry it two miles.  Give to those who ask, and don’t turn away from those who want to borrow.  Matthew 5:41-42

There will always be people who thoughtlessly do things that stretch our kindness and patience and stir-up our character defects.  Our choice is, will we react with anger and mean-spiritedness or will we go the extra mile?  We find our best example in Jesus.

Jesus was equal with God. But Jesus didn’t take advantage of that fact.  Instead, he made himself nothing. He did this by taking on the nature of a servant.  He was made just like human beings. He appeared as a man. He was humble and obeyed God completely. He did this even though it led to his death. Even worse, he died on a cross!  Philippians 2:6b-8

Heavenly Father, You’ve taught us not to do things from selfish motives or from a bitter reaction to the bad behaviour of others.  Your standard for us is to go beyond challenges in people and circumstances and to show kindness, grace, and generosity.

Thank You that while we were still lost in our sin and rebellious ways, You took notice of us and acted on our behalf.  Jesus, You went the extra mile for us by dying on the cross to provide forgiveness for our sins and to give us eternal life.

We know that to follow You today means that we also must be willing to go the extra mile on behalf of others.  It’s not easy to do that, particularly with people who irritate us and make unreasonable demands on our time.    

Help us today to be wise and generous.  Help us to have Your perspective and Your grace as we interact with others.  Amen