on your right cheek, turn and offer the other. If someone sues you in court for your shirt,
give him your coat as well. If someone forces you to go one mile, go two miles with him.
Give when asked, and do not turn your back on anyone who wants to borrow from you.

Reflect

 
“Take an extra mile.” In the Book of Leviticus, retribution needs to be neutralized by
making sure that there is a certain proportionality between the inflicted harm and its
corresponding punishment: “Limb for limb, eye for eye, tooth for tooth!” (f. Lev. 24:20)
However, this instruction as regards moderate vengeance is merely providing satisfaction
on the part of the aggrieved but will not provide any possibility toward healing.
What is the meaning of Jesus’ teaching of going for an extra mile? The Lord summons
people, whether they are the those who are hurting others or those who are hurt, to be open
to the process of healing. When there is true healing, both parties will surely experience
salvation. But another question may be posed – does this mean that we will simply do
nothing and let evil thrive? No, of course not! Those who hurt other people must be
stopped from further hurting anybody but with the intention of saving them too.
Vengeance or retaliation could only be a one-mile solution. Jesus offers a life-changing and
lasting one – one which takes an extra mile.

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