10/27/2022
Now when Paul and his company loosed from Paphos, they came to Perga in Pamphylia: and John departing from them returned to Jerusalem. Acts 13:13
Paul, Barnabas, and John Mark concluded their work on Paphos and continued on their way. Upon arriving at Perga we’re told that John left the others to return to Jerusalem. The abrupt departure by the young man is given without explanation. He may have been homesick, tired of the work, afraid of what was to come, immature, selfish or maybe unprepared for the task.
John Mark’s future seemed bleak. At this point, it appeared that he would never be heard from again. But God is a God of second chances. While Paul and Barnabas prepared for their next mission trip, Barnabas was determined to take John Mark along with them. Paul strongly disagreed with this decision and the close friends parted and went their separate ways.
Time passed and evidently John Mark proved his faithfulness. He reconciled with Paul, and the apostle mentioned Mark with affection, believing him to be profitable for the ministry. (Colossians 4:10; 2 Timothy 4:11)
John Mark may have made a poor decision but it did not define his life or ministry. God forgave him, worked through his life, and blessed him. Because of God, Mark received another chance. Praise God for His mercy, patience, and forgiveness.
With God there is always hope.