One Step Beyond

When I was growing up in the 60's there was a television show called "One Step Beyond." It was a show similar to other "out there" shows like The Twilight Zone and The Outer Limits. It took the general subject matter for the show and extrapolated possibilities to frightening or unthinkable ends.

This story has nothing to do with any of those shows at all. All I am interested in today is the concept incorporated into the title - the concept of taking . . . one step beyond.

I believe that if we are to get noticed in today's world we must take one step beyond what is normally expected. Maybe it's a business going the extra mile or somebody showing up on your doorstep in a time of need with a frozen meal. Success and recognition come to those who take and extra step in their relationships.

We can watch the television news and we can whine and complain about things we don't agree with, but the person who makes the biggest difference is the one who actually does something about it. They make the effort to go a step beyond what might be anticipated.

Where I work there is a man who is undergoing cancer surgery today. He is not a believer in Jesus. Before I left work on Friday I had wanted to pray with my friend. I hoped for an opportunity during my busy day.

About mid-afternoon I sent a plot to the print room, got up from my desk to go get it and noticed this man, coat on, walking out the door. His day was done and I had failed to pray with him. Disappointed in myself I began to pick up the pace, hoping to pray with him in the parking lot.

Suddenly I slowed and thought, "Hey, if God wants me to pray with Him God will provide." Or, perhaps it was more like God telling me, "Hey! I've got this."

The man suddenly walked back in the door! He said something to one of our fellow employees and then turned again to leave . . . just as I arrived on the scene. I asked him if I could pray for him. He said sure, so I did. I gave him a hug and he left.

I don't know what the outcome of his surgery will be. But I do know this. He left the building that day knowing someone loved him and cared for him. It felt good to go that one step beyond what is "normal" in this world. Saying "have a good weekend" just doesn't make it when you're thinking about cancer.

This week my challenge for you is to go one step beyond in someone's life. You can do it! It's Christmas time!! That couple down the street that is struggling, maybe invite them over for dinner. Your friend whose mom is battling cancer, send her an encouraging message. The friend you had a fight with. Call them and apologize . . . even if THEY were wrong. Go one step beyond the expected. Jesus did. He went WAY beyond the norm. We should too. They will know who we are, and whose we are , by the things we do. So let's do it!!!

The following is an episode from One Step Beyond called The Promise. Please watch it . . . all the way to the end. Then you will understand why I have selected this verse for you today.

"For the Spirit of God has made me, and the breath of the Almighty gives me life." - Job 33:4

The Promise - One Step Beyond Episode