The Extra Mile

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All week I knew my Saturday run would be solo. I had planned to go four or five miles as a challenge to myself to go further than the three I've gotten comfortable with. When Saturday morning arrived, of course, my bed was feeling pretty good. I could hear the neighbor's wind chime blowing loudly and knew that the temperature was not only cooler than it had been, but there was also a breeze. The thought of staying in bed crossed my mind but I knew I had to get up. Step one of accomplishing my goal, getting out of bed, was complete. I stepped out the side door into the dark early morning air which, indeed, was cold. I thought to myself that I could just go for the usual three and call it a day. I knew immediately that I would be disappointed if I cut myself short so I ran to the halfway point of where three miles home would be, and I pushed myself to run a mile further knowing I would still have to run home and end at five miles. Step two of accomplishing my goal, going the distance, was complete. At mile four, I really wanted to be home. My sweat was cold. I was ready to shower and get warm and comfortable. It's in the state of being uncomfortable that growth happens.

Have you heard the saying "Don't cross oceans for people who wouldn't cross a puddle for you,"? I saw this quote years ago that is in response to that one, "No, do it. Do cross oceans for people. Love people, all people. No conditions attached, no wondering whether or not they're worthy. Cross oceans, climb mountains. Life and love isn't about what you gain, it's about what you give." I don't know the source, but I love this quote! We live in a culture where we are taught to look out for ourselves first and do whatever it takes to make ourselves happy. We require heavy persuasion or some kind of reward to step out of our comfort zone. As a Christian, I serve a God who calls me to go against culture. In Matthew 5:39-41 (CSB), Jesus says, "But I tell you, don't resist an evildoer. On the contrary, if anyone slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. As for the one who wants to sue you and take away your shirt, let him have your coat as well. And if anyone forces you to go one mile. go with him two." 

Maybe it's just a female thing, but we are so worried about being a "doormat" in a relationship. We don't want to be "walked all over." However, we are told in 1 John 3:16 (CSB) "This is how we have come to know love: He laid down his life for us. We should also lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters." God instructs us to do that very thing, and He was our example by sending Jesus to give His very life for all of us. I am so convicted by this. Will you be willing to go the extra mile for someone? Will you be willing to step in where you see a need? My challenge and yours, should you be willing to accept, is to look for opportunities to be a good friend, to step into someone else's mess and let God make you a little uncomfortable. 

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