I have learned that little things mean a lot. Learn to go the second mile. Do more than what is expected. The Lord surprised the people when he stated a new law, “And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain (two miles)” (Matthew 5:41). The law was that a Roman soldier could compel a Jewish man to carry his pack for one mile (5,280 feet). One mile was considered 1,000 steps. This law caused terrible resentment among the Jews toward the Rome. You can visualize a Jew counting his steps and ignoring the Roman soldier. Finally he makes his one-thousandth step and not one step farther. In frustration he puts the pack down, ignores the soldier, and returns home. Both would go their separate ways without any positive reactions from their time together. Now the Lord says not only to go one mile but volunteer to go two miles and do a little extra. Do it smiling, with a good helpful attitude. It will be unexpected, and it will greatly impress and impact others. Do what is expected then do just a little more.
In the Bible days it was proper to show hospitality by walking with some one towards their destination. Because of thieves and problems you offered protection and comfort. Hospitality is when you open your heart and your home. A small act of kindness can mean a lot. There is a song, “Those little things mean a lot.” Nothing is as… touching as a tear, needed as a hug, rewarding as a kind deed, timely as a friend, thoughtful as a note, appreciated as kindness, needed as love, tender as a touch. Small acts of kindness reap great rewards. Special moments make special memories. Going the second mile means to do more than what you are compelled, required or expected to do. Do a little more for you parents, mate, children and friends. Send a card or make a call. Reach out and touch someone.
When someone compels (asks) you to help…Do it as unto the Lord. “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men” (Col. 3:23). Make yourself valuable as a good neighbor, employee and citizen. In this “me” generation, the world needs to see Christ in others. “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another” (John13:35). William Booth (Salvation Army) could not make a meeting he sent a telegram with only one word, “Others.” God is only interested in people. People don’t care how much you know until they know that your care. Let’s be a second miler Christian and do just a little more for others. Go the second mile.
