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Unexpected Joy

If anybody forces you to go a mile with him, do more - go two miles with him.  Matthew 5:41 Phillips

Photo courtesy of pixabay.The look on Andrew’s face was priceless.

When Andrew spotted the cardboard hamburger box in my hand, a smile erupted from ear to ear. “Thank you so much!” he exclaimed.

As I handed him the box, he lifted his right hand and slapped me a high five. I couldn’t help but smile. It’s amazing what a cheeseburger with just ketchup will do for a person.

Earlier that week while at work, a customer called with a problem. They were in a jam because they hadn’t ordered enough material for their contractor. They needed additional material quickly so the contractor could complete his job. Our typical turnaround time for what they needed was two days. 

Since I knew they were in a bind, I called Andrew—the floor supervisor. Even though the prognosis looked grim, he asked a couple of questions and started on the order while I entered it into the computer. Then Andrew worked his magic. In less than one hour, he personally delivered the completed order to shipping in time to freight out the same day.

When Andrew called to tell me the order was on its way, he jokingly chided, “I’ll take a cheeseburger with just ketchup.”

I laughed. What a small request for such a monumental undertaking. 

Actions like these set people apart. The supervisor could have complained, but he didn’t. He knew timing was critical, so he went the extra mile to help the customer.

Jesus commands us to go the extra mile (Matthew 5:41). It should be our way of life. Instead of balking, we should treat others with kindness—even our enemies. My co-worker’s actions exemplified Jesus’ teachings. When I showed up a couple days later with his just-ketchup cheeseburger, the surprise and unexpected joy was apparent in the smile that exploded across his face.

If we live our life in accordance with Jesus’ teaching, God will bless us with unexpected joys that make doing so worthwhile. Decide today to go the extra mile. Find joy in living a life of obedience.

(Photo courtesy of pixabay.)

(For more devotions, visit Christian Devotions.)


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Sheryl M. Baker

Sheryl M. Baker enjoys bringing hope and encouragement through God's Word. Her devotions have appeared in Light from the Word, The Secret Place, Power for Today, and christiandevotions.us. She is a contributing author to Yvonne Lehman’s books, Spoken Moments, More Christmas Moments, and Loving Moments. Sheryl lives in northwest Indiana with her husband Ben and spoiled cat Rex. Connect with Sheryl at sherylmbaker.wordpress.com or spunbythepotter.com.