Acts 15:36-41 (NRSV)
Paul and Barnabas part company
After some days Paul said to Barnabas, "Come, let us return and visit the believers in every city where we proclaimed the word of the Lord and see how they are doing." Barnabas wanted to take with them John called Mark. But Paul decided not to take with them one who had deserted them in Pamphylia and had not accompanied them in the work. The disagreement became so sharp that they parted company; Barnabas took Mark with him and sailed away to Cyprus. But Paul chose Silas and set out, the believers commending him to the grace of the Lord. He went through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches.
Paul and Barnabas part company
After some days Paul said to Barnabas, "Come, let us return and visit the believers in every city where we proclaimed the word of the Lord and see how they are doing." Barnabas wanted to take with them John called Mark. But Paul decided not to take with them one who had deserted them in Pamphylia and had not accompanied them in the work. The disagreement became so sharp that they parted company; Barnabas took Mark with him and sailed away to Cyprus. But Paul chose Silas and set out, the believers commending him to the grace of the Lord. He went through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches.
Reflection
Sometimes parting ways spreads the word of God. But the parting of the ways must be with honor and mutual agreement. It's not as if one or the other were dead. Paul and Barnabas still respected and loved one another. Each would now grow in their journey with the Lord. Each will grow in love towards one another and God. It's not as if one or the other were dead, but as if both are now alive and active spreading God's Word and strengthening the churches.
Prayer
As we come and go and move and flow, may your Word spread through us and your grace been seen in all the world...today...tomorrow...and forever. --- Amen
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