Deuteronomy Chapter 22: Verses 1-4 (NIV Translation)
If you see your fellow Israelite’s ox or sheep straying, do not ignore it but be sure to take it back to its owner. If they do not live near you or if you do not know who owns it, take it home with you and keep it until they come looking for it. Then give it back. Do the same if you find their donkey or cloak or anything else they have lost. Do not ignore it.If you see your fellow Israelite’s donkey or ox fallen on the road, do not ignore it. Help the owner get it to its feet.
Matthew Chapter 5: Verse 41 (NIV Translation)
“If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles.”
God was teaching the people that they had a responsibility to help a neighbour in trouble if it was in their power to do so. There are times when it is right to “keep ourselves to ourselves” and not poke our nose into someone else’s affairs, but when someone is struggling and we can help, it’s not right to turn a blind eye.
Jesus took that teaching a step further when He taught people that they should go the second mile. The teaching stems from the fact that a roman soldier could compel someone to carry their kit for a mile. Jesus taught that by going the extra mile willingly and doing the unexpected that would have an impact on the people involved. Sometimes we’re happy to do our bit, at other times we would rather not, especially if it’s inconvenient, or takes us out of our comfort zone. If in doubt we should think to ourselves, “What would Jesus do?” and then most importantly, go and do it!
Dear Lord,
Help me to be willing to go the second mile as a good ambassador of Jesus. I ask in His Name. Amen.