Second Mile Christians

I would like to talk to you today about being

a Second Mile Christian. In “The Sermon

on the Mount,” words spoken by Jesus

were powerful enough to change the world,

“Whosoever shall compel you to go a mile,

go with him two.” Under Roman rule, a

Roman soldier could command a subject

to carry his pack. Or run an errand one mile.

The Jewish boys had measured off a mile

and driven pegs to mark the distance. Do

not miss this abundant life principle to

do just a little more than you are required.

Several years ago, I was stopped in Ann Arbor

by a police officer. It was during the riots, and

I was in a hurry to get home. Knowing the

stress that an officer was under at that time,

I said nothing and waited. A few minutes

later, he returned and handed me a note and

left. I opened it and read, “Pastor, take it easy,

slow down, you will not get many tickets like

this.” I had not told him that I was a minister

and I had not expected or deserved his

kindness. I felt that he had gone the second

mile.

A second mile Christian will lighten the load

for others. Do a little more, be a little kinder.

The second mile overflows with blessings.

God went the second mile for us when He

sent His son, Jesus.

Father, let others see you in me as I go the

second mile today.

Amen.