Sometimes the shortest distances are the hardest to cross. I’ve often said that the longest 30 yards is the distance between our front door and the front door of our neighbor!

Jesus said to his followers, “If a soldier demands that you carry his gear for a mile, carry it two miles. Give to those who ask, and don’t turn away from those who want to borrow” (Matthew 5:41-42 NLT). When you consider that the people of Jesus’ day walked everywhere they went, a mile was not a long distance for them. Jesus encouraged us to do the little extra that shows we are different.

Sometimes the opportunity to go the extra mile comes from someone who is demanding our attention. But often we’re faced with good opportunities to serve or show kindness that take a bit of sacrifice, extra time, or personal inconvenience.

What are the small “distances” we’re asked to travel, some of which take only 10-15 minutes, that show we have feet that carry the Good News of Christ?

Is there one person you could serve today by going the extra mile? What do they need that you can provide in the name of Jesus?