Over and Above

“You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.” 
Matthew 5:38-42 (NIV)

Do you know that as a follower of Jesus, you carry a spiritual green card? You live and work here, but you're not a citizen here. Your citizenship is in heaven. 

In today’s verse, Jesus describes how kingdom citizenship is different. Jesus quotes a judicial principle found in Exodus, Leviticus and Deuteronomy. It was instituted to ensure the punishment was sufficient for the crime. 

Today, the world says “get even.” “If someone wrongs you, you wrong them ten times over. That's the world's way. But the way of the kingdom is benevolence–even to your enemies. 

Jesus says there's no room for revenge or holding a grudge when you're walking the second mile. Jesus gives another illustration in verse 40. “And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well.” (Matthew 5:40, NIV) 

Equipped with the Holy Spirit’s power from within, you can be generous toward those who have hurt you. 

Jesus is not telling you to be a doormat. But He is challenging you to go over and above. You're going to have some situations where Jesus asks you to give more than is reasonable to give. And He promises His Spirit will help you.

You operate differently as a citizen of Jesus’ kingdom. You are empowered to go beyond what is expected. And you won’t be left empty-handed. You receive something in return–His blessing. 

Prayer: Heavenly Father, Thank You for giving me the power to be abundantly generous. Open my eyes for opportunities to be a blessing to those around me. Help me see ways for me to serve. In Jesus’ name, Amen.