“If someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles.” — Matthew 5:41
Go the Extra Mile
In Matthew 5:41, Jesus laid out a new way of living for people who wanted to follow Him. Those who chose to do so had to be motivated by love. This was a very hard way to live since they were under oppression by Roman rule. But love helps you to move when you feel like stopping.
This same teaching ought to motivate the athlete in today’s world. One of the best ways an athlete can give testimony of Christ is by going the extra mile. This motivation comes from a heart that wants to uplift Christ and not from a selfish perspective. Consider these basic principles:
1. Go the extra mile during practice — Arrive early; help set up and tear down equipment.
2. Go the extra mile during the game — Be intense and aggressive; control your emotions and words. Submit to authority.
3. Go the extra mile in the clubhouse — Remember who you are and whose you are.
Your deeds, motivated by love, get others’ attention. So many people in the world today do not live a life motivated by love. Just as in Jesus’ day, the best witness is a life that places others ahead of yourself. Show love to someone today.
— John Zeller
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