Extra cheese or features, extra special treatment or upgrades, extra work hours or party favors. According to Merriam-Webster, “Extra implies excess, surplus, something additional beyond what is expected or necessary. In Latin, extra means ‘outside’ or ‘beyond’…” A few years ago, my son schooled me on the slang use of “extra.” Someone who is described as having “extra” exhibits dramatic, over-the-top behavior, someone who upon entering a room cannot be but noticed. 

Though not having much “extra” in slang terms, I am called to consider “extra” in the world around me, in what I have, and in what I do.

Extra: a gallery of nature’s “come hither” creature provisions now in bloom

Extra Stuff

no bag for the journey or extra shirt or sandals or a staff, for the worker is worth his keep. Matthew 10:10 NIV

Sending His apostles to Galilee in Israel, Jesus had told them not to stock up on extra money or precious metals (Matthew 10:5–9)—apparently not even money for supplies. Here He tells them not to take a bag—perhaps a reference to beggars with bags for donations—nor extra tunic, extra sandals or a staff. In other words, no provision for their own needs. 

What is the lesson here? Trust. God is faithful and can provide through the generosity and hospitality of others (Matthew 6:25–34). That said, Jesus gave the opposite instruction for other missions, as in  Luke 22:35–41. The lesson? Trust and obedience.

Extra Mile

If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. Matthew 5:41 NIV

This verse follows the “turn the other cheek” to evil people or “give them your garments” examples. (Matthew 5:38–40). What is the greater context? The Romans who occupied Israel were brutal masters. They could force any Jewish citizen to do their will, in this reference, to carry baggage for them, a forced march. Ordinarily, harsh treatment like that would incite rebellion among the oppressed.

Jesus the Messiah came to earth to overthrow the old and bring the new, but not in human terms. So, by asking His followers to go the extra mile or two or three is not an act of surrender to their enemies, as many might have thought, but to give more than their enemies can take. Power in the guise of submission. Or as Paul states in Romans 12:21, “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good,” making it possible for God to show His goodness to those who intend evil. Killing abuse with kindness. Evil cannot overcome the power of Christ. 

In God we trust for provision and protection. His Grace, the ultimate over-the-top Extra, reigns victorious.

Linkup with Five Minute Friday: https://fiveminutefriday.com/2025/05/15/fmf-writing-prompt-link-up-extra/