Monday, November 7, 2005
1 Thessalonians 2:8 We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us.
GOING THE EXTRA MILE
When we say someone has "gone the extra mile" we mean that a person has done more than what was expected. The student who only needs to turn in a hand-written report but instead types it, adds color photos, and puts it in a plastic cover has "gone the extra mile."
When the Apostle Paul preached to the Thessalonians he went out of his way to make sure everyone had an opportunity to hear the word of God. Apparently the congregation there could not fully care for his earthly needs, so Paul found secular work (probably tent-making) in order to support the ministry there. In doing so, he put forth a tremendous amount of extra effort so as to bring the gospel freely and without burden to those souls who needed it. Paul really "shared his life" with the Christians at Thessalonika, using all his talents and abilities to serve them better.
Are there times when you might "go the extra mile" in order to bring the gospel to someone else? Might you have opportunities to "share your life" so an unbeliever can hear the word? Perhaps you can join a mission helper trip or sponsor an orphan in India. Maybe you would take some extra time to pray for a friend or relative who does not yet know Christ.
See what you can do to "share your life" in the service of the gospel, not because you are forced to do so, but because Jesus Christ your Lord went the extra mile for you -- making it worth the effort.
