Tuesday, February 6, 2024
Motivate!
February 6, 2024
Pause. Pray. Read. Be still. Write. Pray.
Read Acts 15: 36-41
36 After some days Paul said to Barnabas, “Come, let us return and visit the brothers and sisters in every city where we proclaimed the word of the Lord and see how they are doing.” 37 Barnabas wanted to take with them John called Mark. 38 But Paul decided not to take with them one who had deserted them in Pamphylia and had not accompanied them in the work. 39 The disagreement became so sharp that they parted company; Barnabas took Mark with him and sailed away to Cyprus. 40 But Paul chose Silas and set out, the brothers and sisters commending him to the grace of the Lord. 41 He went through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches (NRSV).
Be Still: Paul and Barnabas’ partnership in ministry ends following a disagreement about including John Mark in their journey. Paul sees John Mark’s early departure as an act of not being fully committed to offering Christ. The disagreement creates a clear line in the sand for the friends. Paul saw John Mark one way and Barnabas saw him another way. John Mark wanted to redeem himself, Barnabas wanted to offer redemption, but Paul refused and was not able to offer even an ounce of forgiveness or grace.
John Wesley was a perfect example of what it meant to be a witness of God’s love, and to motivate others. When sharing the joys of his faith, even in times of disagreement, others had the opportunity to know Christ’s love. We often forget that through our words and our actions, we are continuous vessels and motivators of God’s grace, even in our disputes.
Disagreements can also be good motivators when it helps us to see God’s greater purpose. How have you worked through disagreements or looked back on times of division for motivation to share God’s love in the here and now?
Prayer: God of us all. Thank you for your continuous grace. Amen.
Pastor Kellie