Faithful Man: Devotions for Living in Faithless TimesSample

BE THE MAN WHO WALKS THE EXTRA MILE

In a more distant past, it was normal to conscript someone into forced labor. Conscription means the compulsory enlistment for a service to be performed. More recently, this word was used to describe the draft that brought young soldiers into the armed forces. Both meanings suggest involuntary service. Jesus knew this kind of service was a normal part of life in His culture. Therefore, He told His disciples that if they found themselves forced to help someone, they shouldn’t stop at the bare minimum. Rather, they should set the bar much higher and do even more than they were asked. This response didn’t stem from a desire for recognition—it proved they were Christians who represented God. After all, if they were to treat others as if they were accommodating God Himself, then why would it matter if anyone was paying attention? Think about what your life would be like if God behaved like we do sometimes. Would He say, “Sorry, I can’t help you right now. I’m on the clock”? Never! That’s just not who He is. Other people’s needs will never be met if you lack empathy. God tells us that we should go above and beyond to help others. After all, isn’t that what He did for us?

When you answer someone’s call for help, do you go beyond what’s needed or stop once the minimum is reached? How does God’s example help you see the right response?