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Listen while you read: "Are You Washed In The Blood"1 (Lyrics) |
It was time to replace my old, clunky, hard-to-open storm door. After the somewhat painful process of researching, selecting, and ordering a new door, installation day finally arrived! The installer was scheduled to arrive in the early afternoon, so a couple of hours before his expected arrival, I was enjoying a latte at my favourite coffee shop when I suddenly got a text message. The installer said that he was running early and would be arriving in 20 minutes. I got into high gear and raced home, arriving a few minutes ahead of him.
Who can complain when an appointment is early rather than late? Not only did the installer arrive early and then quickly and competently — and with a smile! — replace my storm door, but he also cleaned the glass on the new door. I had noted the dust and smears from the packaging materials and intended to clean the glass as soon as he was gone. Instead, the worker beat me to it, whipping out his bottle of Windex and quickly cleaning the smudged glass. "Thank you so much for going the extra mile," I exclaimed. "I plan to pass on my commendation to your employer." Though cleaning the glass was likely a normal step in the installation procedure, it still struck me as being extra courteous.
Today's everyday expression, "going the extra mile", is derived from a familiar passage of Scripture:
Matthew 5:41 – If someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. (NIV)
In the first century, a Roman soldier could legally compel any individual to carry his gear for up to one Roman mile, by force if necessary. Jesus told His followers that carrying the load farther than was required was a way of exhibiting their love for Him. We can apply this today, not by literally carrying someone else's burden for more than a mile, but by exhibiting a spirit of generosity by going over and above what is expected or even demanded of us.
As we walk about in our own sphere in this big world, are we attentive in going the extra mile in our dealings with others? There are many little niceties and courtesies that can serve as a lubricant for life's rough edges. Some acts might not be missed if they weren't done, but when they are, it makes a difference. People will note the smile or word of kindness that accompanies an ordinary action.
Going the extra mile takes forethought and attention, but it is worth the effort. Not only will it be a blessing to someone else, but it will glorify and please our Master.
Prayer: Dear Father in heaven, You have shown us daily mercy and grace. As we live life surrounded by others, may we spread Your love and share Your kindness through our words and deeds. Amen.
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Thank you.
A great reminder. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for the encouraging story, Gail.
Thank you, Gail, for this encouragement to be God’s blessing to others.
Beautiful, Gail! Exactly what is needed today. Your writing is a continued blessing to us ALL.
My sister just sent me today’s devotion and I loved it.
Thanks.
Amen Gail.
Enjoy your new door. I had a new back door with a window, that opens, installed this fall. Such a treat!
Blessings.
Thanks Gail. Going the extra mile does do so much good, maybe a cheery phone call or email during this time of restrictions due to the pandemic when we are not able to do so in personal contact. Blessings to you.
Thanks, Gail for today’s story.
I enjoy reading them! I like how you take an ordinary situation and can weave a heavenly message into it.
Let it shine!
(NC)
Hello Gail,
Many thanks for your very mindful devotional today. We can never really know how the smallest deed can mean so much to someone else. Doing good and positive things for others surely pleases our Lord as he oversees our daily lives. Blessings for these special writings you do for the devotional morning program.
Dear Gail,
Well your devotional reinforced how wrong I was yesterday. The house beside us is empty and the cousin is looking after it until it can be sold. He lives about an hour drive away. My husband had cleaned the front walk when we got the snow but didn’t do the driveway. He then felt guilty that he didn’t do the driveway. I said I wouldn’t bother since he is not likely to come down in this weather. A few hours later he came and was busy moving the snow. My husband wanted to go the extra mile and I was not supportive – shame on me. I find messages I need to hear, God send my way.
It also is that I just didn’t hear this message in another devotional recently. I needed to hear it again. Hopefully I have it now and will remember to do that little extra more than is expected.
Thanks for continuing to share with others which is going the extra mile. Blessings.
Thank you, Gail, for sharing this encouraging devotional with us.
Blessings.
Thanks Gail.
Just like God Almighty who went the extra mile; sending His only son Jesus to die for us while we were yet sinners.
Blessings on your work.