"Second Mile Love"

August 31, 2023 | By Chuck

What is second mile love?  Well, the temptation for some is to do only what is required.  Some will only do the bare minimum and nothing more.  That is not “second mile love.”  Second mile love is when you literally go the second mile for someone and do more than is expected. Second mile love is going above and beyond for others.  Second mile love is when we exceed the expectations of others with a generous and giving spirit. 

            The bottom line about second mile love is that Jesus encouraged it, so we better do it.  “And if anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles” (Mt. 5:41).  As the Lord’s church, we need to be people who blow by the first mile willingly and are always ready to go the second mile.  Anyone can go one mile, but it takes a real true Christ-like second mile love to go two miles.  Second mile love always makes a difference in the lives of those you serve.  Second mile love should always point those we serve right to Jesus.  Jesus is the reason we even consider second mile love. 

            We have plenty who are hurting emotionally and physically.  Let’s be the arms and feet of Jesus and go that second mile with them.  May we recognize those who are hurting and show them second mile love.  Remember, second mile love is about loving others in a way that far exceeds any personal standard or expectation.   Jesus loves us with a second mile love, so when we love others the same way, they will know we belong to Jesus. “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.  By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:34-35).