30 April 2020 -2 Timothy 4:11 (NIV)
Scripture
11 Only Luke is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you, because he is helpful to me in my ministry.
Reflection
Of all Paul’s close associates, only Luke (Col. 4:14) was with Paul. He had accompanied Paul on many of his travels and had shared the first Roman imprisonment with him (Col. 4:14; Phil. 24). In joining the two of them, Timothy was to pick up Mark along the way. It is not known where Mark might have been located. But it is the same Mark whom Paul had once considered untrustworthy (Acts 15:36–40). But now Paul considers Mark helpful to his ministry. It seems Barnabas’ concern (in opposition to Paul’s wishes) to salvage Mark was now paying dividends to Paul himself and his ministry (Col. 4:10).
Through this verse, we can note two observations. The first, Paul did not go about doing ministry alone. He had help from other people. Secondly, even though initially Paul had his doubts about Mark, relationships are reconcilable. After all, we have the ultimate role model (Jesus) who reconciled us to the Father while we were still sinners. How much more should we not extend such a grace-like act?
Thoughts for the day
- Is there someone you feel you need to forgive?
- Are you currently feeling alone and in need of a Christian community?
- What does this passage tell you about God or Jesus?
- What does this passage tell you about humanity?
- What do you feel God is telling you through this passage?
- How can you apply this message in an area of your life that needs transformation?
- Is there anyone you think should hear or will benefit from this message? Go and tell them.
Prayer
Pray this prayer throughout the day, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13).