There are two classes of men: those who act only when circumstances force them to do something, and those who gladly volunteer to act regardless of circumstances. One says: “What do I have to do?” The other says: “What may I do?” One is always looking for a way out of his duties. The other is always looking for opportunities to do good.
We are not left to wonder which attitude pleases God. We are taught to look for opportunities to do good (Gal.6:l0). Jesus favored the son who did his father’s will rather than the one who merely “talked” obedience (Mt.2l:28-32).
A man deserves no praise for engaging in only the barest minimum of service to God. What would you think of a father who measures the time he is to spend with his children down to the last second, and then, when their time is up, forbids them to “bother” him? Or what about a husband who refuses to give his wife one penny more than is absolutely necessary for living? Does such a man deserve commendation? Yet this attitude correctly describes many in their relationship to the Lord — they are satisfied with doing only what they have to do, AND NOT ONE THING MORE!
Jesus taught, “And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain” (Mt. 5: 41). If Jesus commanded ‘go the second mile’ as the proper response to an unjust Roman law, how much more does He expect it from us who have His perfect law? When was the last time you went the second mile?
– by Rick Duggin
