Go Share a Little Lagniappe

“….whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two “ 
(Matthew 5: 40)

        In teaching His followers to show generosity and do more they are expected to do He drew on the law of His day. By law Jews were required to take the items a Roman was carrying a mile. Having fulfilled the law they were free to put it down and walk away. As a show of compassion they could voluntarily carry the load further than required.

        The teaching today involving all things is to always go beyond what is expected. Whether in school, athletic training, business, parent/child relationships, husband/wife relationships, friendship, or any transaction.

        It is generosity in action.

        Among the Cajun population of Louisiana they speak of lagniappe, something given or obtained gratuitously or by way of good measure. 

        The classic example is when purchasing 12 donuts and getting 13. The 13th one is lagniappe, a little something extra.

        Are you a second mile person, do you have a lagniappe disposition?

        I met the most fulfilled person in Bermuda. He was John James Randolf Adolphus Mills, known as Johnny Barnes. He was a Bermudian entertainer who waved to passing traffic at the Foot of the Lane roundabout in Hamilton, Bermuda, from roughly 3:45 am to 10:00 am every workday. A Bermuda institution mentioned in several guidebooks and profiled in two documentary films, he was known for waving and saying “I love you, God loves you,” to passing commuters during the morning rush hour into Hamilton. He did more than he had to.

        Society is hungry for second mile acts, and lagniappe deeds. Little kindnesses result in big uplifts. They build up people.

        As Christians, we often seek guidance from the Bible on how to live our lives. The Scriptures are filled with verses that encourage us to take action, serve others, and make a difference in the world. Whether it’s helping those in need or sharing kindness, the Bible teaches us the importance of doing good in our everyday lives.

        Freedom in Christ carries the responsibility to serve others selflessly. The Bible encourages and motivates us by a sincere desire to uplift others rather than seeking personal gain.

        “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” – 1 Peter 4:10

        Go walk a second mile with someone needing a pick-up. Give someone a little lagniappe.