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Friday January 17 - Go the extra mile!
“If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles.”
Matthew 5:41
During the time of Jesus, Israel was under Roman rule. The Romans were Israel’s oppressors; they were despised by the Jews. One of the most abhorrent of Roman laws was the regulation which allowed a Roman soldier to force a Jew to carry the soldier’s possessions, however heavy, for one mile! It was an unreasonable demand. Hence, when Jesus spoke out, his disciples probably expected him to condemn the Romans.
Not so! Instead, Jesus effectively said to his disciples that if a Roman soldier ordered them to carry his heavy load for a mile, they should not do so begrudgingly, but instead offer to carry the load for two miles! (That’s two miles there and two miles walk back!) This proposal would, inevitably, surprise the Roman soldier, but at the same time speak to him. Let’s remember that we are all called to ‘go the extra mile’.
What can we learn from today’s scripture? 1) ‘Going the extra mile’ shows motivation and willingness to serve another person. 2) It equips our hearts to value others and acknowledge God's authority. 3) If others treat us unfairly, how we respond is more important. 4) Jesus shows us that our response needs to be generous and unconditional.
1 John 2:6 reminds us of our relationship with Jesus: ‘Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did.’ Jesus led a selfless life of humility and service.
Father, I repent of the many times that I have failed to go the extra mile for others. Amen.
Saturday January 18 - Have a generous heart
“Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who
wants to borrow from you.” Matthew 5:42
In today’s scripture Jesus tells us how to respond if a neighbour asks to borrow from us. He exhorts his disciples to have a heart that seeks the best for others and treats them with generosity. We are to give willingly to the one who asks, without bitterness. This Kingdom principle reflects the wisdom of Solomon: ‘Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act. Do not say to your neighbour, “Come back tomorrow and I will give it to you” – when you already have it with you’ (Proverbs 3:27-28).
Jesus makes it clear that we are not just to follow the law but to look for opportunities where we can serve, give, and share with those in need – our neighbour and our communities. We are to focus on our heart attitude. The predominant goal of our actions should be righteousness rather than self-seeking.
According to noted Messianic Jewish scholar Arnold Fruchtenbaum, ‘In its context – in the Jewish frame of reference in which it was spoken – the Sermon on the Mount is the Messiah’s interpretation of the standard of righteousness which the Law of Moses demanded, put in contrast with some of the pharisaic interpretations. A better title for this ‘sermon’ would be “The Messiah’s interpretation of the Righteousness of the Torah”.’ Many years ago, I had the privilege of studying under Arnold Fruchtenbaum in person. This was so enriching for my understanding of the Bible.
Lord, may I seek the best for others and treat them with generosity. Amen.
PRAYER FOR TODAY
PRAYER FOR TODAY
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