DON’T GIVE UP
Today’s Scripture: Acts 15:36-41
Today’s Verse: “They had such a sharp disagreement that they parted company. Barnabas took Mark and sailed for Cyprus.“ – Acts 15:39 (NIV)
Most of us know John Mark as the author of one of the four gospels. But he has a fascinating life before and after that. He tagged along with the two ministry giants, Paul and Barnabas, on their early missionary journeys, but got in trouble for deserting them. After that, Paul wanted nothing to do with him, but Barnabas saw enough potential that he took young Mark under his wings to Cyprus.
Mark matures as a result of his time with Barnabas in Cyprus. He returns to Rome and serves Paul there, and also authors a gospel account based on Peter’s experiences. But that’s not all. He makes one more missionary journey, to Alexandria, Egypt, where he plants the gospel.
Thank God that Barnabas didn’t give up on John Mark. We would’ve been without a riveting account of Jesus’ life. And millions of Egyptian Christians today can trace their spiritual lineage back to a young missionary who got a second chance to serve.
-- Lee Huang
God, help us not to give up on those who disappoint us; you might still be at work in their lives.
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