…and if anyone forces you to go one mile, go also the second mile.

Matthew 5:41b

In ancient Rome, a soldier could grab you and force you to carry their gear for a mile. This was called “impressment”.

Color me not impressed.

Could you imagine a member of some occupying force throwing their backpack in your lap and saying, “let’s go, punk”? They’re the one with all the power in this scenario, so how could you refuse?

Jesus talks about this in the Sermon on the Mount. It’s the same passage where he encourages us, if somebody sues the shirt off our back, to hand over our coat as well. This is the “turn the other cheek” passage. It’s right before the “love your enemies” talk. These are not easy words to digest–this is tough stuff!

There are two ways to read this passage.

• First is the traditional “they’ll know we are Christians” way. Jesus encourages us to be extravagant in our love, never refusing a request–even going above and beyond what is asked. Thus, our enemies see only our radical grace and compassion in return.
  
• The second way? It’s the “embarrass the heck out of them” response. Somebody slaps you? Turn the other cheek, publicly calling them out for their lack of control. A soldier dumps their gear on you? Walk twice as far to make them look weak for needing your help. Someone takes your shirt in court? Since they’re being Mr. Unreasonable, let them take your coat while they’re at it. You’re publicly shaming your abuser.

Which reading is correct? To love or to embarrass? They seem like such different responses, but I suspect both perspectives can be read into Jesus’ words. Jesus truly DOES want us to express extravagant love, but not at the price of submission. This is love with justice.

Today, when we talk about “going the second mile” we think about making an extra effort, pushing ourselves to exceed in some area. That’s admirable. But sometimes, as a response to injustice, it can also be a deliberate way to remind folks who truly has the power in the situation. We are not submitting to someone’s unfair demands. We are submitting to Christ, whose love compels us into a different kind of reaction.

So, the next time you experience “impressment” in some form or another, carefully consider your options to such juvenile behavior. You can angrily fight back, or silently acquiesce,

or you can practice a little of what Jesus might call

tough love.

Have a great week,

Mitch