October 21, 2019

October 21

Running with Jesus  

Acts 15:39 “And the contention was so sharp between them, that they departed asunder one from the other: and so Barnabas took Mark, and sailed unto Cyprus;

"Barnabas was son of encouragement or exhortation. In the Greek it means a calling for, summons, hence: (a) exhortation, (b) entreaty, (c) encouragement, joy, gladness, (d) consolation, comfort. We all need some of this at times!

      Mark had erred in some way on one of Paul and Barnabas missionary journeys and Paul did not want to take him along this time. They departed ways and Paul went on but Barnabas went with Mark.

     We all make mistakes and need someone to come along beside us to help us by encouraging us. Barnabas was the man for this job!  Barnabas had also been there and helped Paul after his conversion and they traveled all over forming churches.

     Mark overcame this err because later we see Paul asking them to bring Mark and under the inspiration of God wrote the book of Mark in the Bible.

     We need to be a Barnabas that comes along beside those who stumble and help them get back into the race.

     Look around and see if there is someone you need to encourage today. Send a card or call and invite them to lunch. Let them  know  God is there and we all make mistakes. We must remember to not point fingers because we all lag behind at times. 

Father, lead us to someone we can help on this trek we are on. Help us to live as an over comer and an exhorter. Show us how to help other runners on this path in such a way to finish their race. Thank You for not giving up on us and let us not give up on others. 

Answering the call, tomorrow, meet me here!

 Judy Hollaway

Originally penned 2015