My wife and I were staying in a nice hotel for a special occasion.  At the pool, attendants were ready to bring us fresh towels and ice water before we even sat down. After returning from a jog, a bellman handed me a water bottle as I walked through the lobby. Over and over again, they continued to surprise us with that unexpected, extra mile service.

Extra mile service goes beyond what is expected. It’s doing over and above the bare minimum. I truly believe that any corporation, organization, or ministry that incorporates that extra mile service into their culture will have a greater impact for good.

Did you know that this idea actually originated with Jesus Christ?  Matthew records Jesus saying, “Whoever forces you to go one mile, go with him two.” In other words, go that extra mile and do more than is required of you. At that time, Rome ruled and it was legal for any Roman soldier to ask a civilian to help them carry their armor for one mile at any time. You can imagine how much the people resented this rule, so Jesus’ teaching was a shock.  But following Jesus calls for extra mile service. It means setting aside our own ego and putting the needs of others ahead of our own. It means going the extra mile.