I recently returned from a mission trip with some pretty amazing people. We were meeting practical needs of people of the Texas-Mexico border and encouraging the ministry partners there. God did miracles and our faith was strengthened (see more at www.PowerMinistry.com ) Over the last dozen years or so, we have made friends and teamed up with leaders of orphanages, churches, refugee camps, etc. They are precious people and friendships that I value greatly. Sometimes, choosing whom to partner with is easy, sometimes dissolving the partnership is necessary and it hurts. The apostle Paul chose not to include John Mark on his second missionary journey and instead chose Silas. Barnabas decided to continue on apart from Paul, but with John Mark. Both accomplished God’s purposes. It was not a small disagreement and it would take years for the reconciliation between Paul and John Mark. Even Christians can have sharp disagreements.
After some days Paul said to Barnabas, “Let’s return and visit the brothers and sisters in every city in which we proclaimed the word of the Lord, and see how they are.” Barnabas wanted to take John, called Mark, along with them also. But Paul was of the opinion that they should not take along with them this man who had deserted them in Pamphylia and had not gone with them to the work. Now it turned into such a sharp disagreement that they separated from one another, and Barnabas took Mark with him and sailed away to Cyprus. But Paul chose Silas, and left after being entrusted by the brothers to the grace of the Lord. And he was traveling through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches. Acts 15:26-41 NASB
When I disagree with others, do I remain godly? Is there anyone I am to reconcile with at this time?
God, as this day begins- I am grateful for the opportunity to reconnect with Robbie, Mario, Hector, Tim, and the other ministry partners as well as our missionary team. Bless the men who are finishing week two with health, safety and productivity. Give rest to Marty, Mark, Doug. Dave, Kyle, and Tim. Help me to be agreeable whenever possible, resolved about the importance of the gospel, and ready to always reconcile with other believers.
